Trump’s refugee ban leaves 2,000 Afghan allies in limbo: Refugee Support Organization
The head of an organization assisting Afghan refugees, Shawn VanDiver, expressed concerns over President Trump’s executive order suspending refugee admissions. He noted that at least 2,000 eligible Afghan refugees, already approved by the U.S. government for resettlement, are now left in limbo.
A White House adviser, Tom Homan, stated that the Trump administration’s immigration policies, including the refugee program, are under review. He cited security concerns as a significant issue that needs to be addressed before continuing with the admissions process.
VanDiver, representing the Afghan Evac initiative, highlighted the plight of Afghan refugees who remain in hiding and uncertainty, particularly those who collaborated with the U.S. government during the Afghanistan war. He emphasized the urgent need to ensure their safety.
According to Trump’s new executive order, signed yesterday, refugee admissions have been suspended for at least 90 days starting January 27. During this period, the Departments of Homeland Security and State will evaluate whether the program serves U.S. interests.
Critics of the Biden administration, including Republican lawmakers, have accused it of mishandling the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. They argue that the failure to evacuate all Afghan allies has left many at risk of persecution and retribution from the Taliban.
While over 180,000 Afghans have been evacuated to the U.S. since the withdrawal in August 2021, concerns persist over the fate of those still stranded in Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as the security vetting process for those seeking resettlement.
Many stranded Afghans in Afghanistan and Pakistan are facing dire situations, including persecution, economic hardships, and fear of retaliation from the Taliban. These individuals, who risked their lives by working alongside U.S. forces, feel abandoned by the very government they supported.
With limited access to resources and international assistance, these individuals often resort to hiding, unable to lead normal lives due to constant threats. The prolonged uncertainty has exacerbated their suffering, leading to a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Addressing the challenges of stranded Afghans requires immediate international collaboration. The U.S. and its allies must expedite the processing of resettlement cases and provide temporary protection measures for those awaiting relocation.
Ensuring the safety and dignity of Afghan allies is not only a moral responsibility but also vital for maintaining trust with current and future partners in conflict zones. Without swift action, the legacy of U.S. involvement in Afghanistan may be further tarnished.
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