Congress Members call on State Department to restart Refugee Resettlement Program

Over 40 U.S. Congress members urged the State Department to immediately revive the suspended refugee resettlement program, citing humanitarian concerns.

Yasmeen Ansari, a U.S. Congress member, announced that over 40 Congress members have written to the U.S. Department of State, urging the revival of the refugee resettlement program. She emphasized the importance of welcoming those fleeing violence and persecution, stating that the United States made a promise to provide refuge.

The letter, published by Ansari, highlights the suspension of the refugee resettlement program during Donald Trump’s second term, along with the complete elimination of its funding. This decision led to a new crisis for thousands of refugees, leaving them in dangerous conditions.

The letter also pointed out the dire consequences for refugees who were left in limbo. Many had completed all the necessary security and medical screenings but were unable to travel to the U.S. due to the suspension of the resettlement program. As of April 2025, over 22,000 refugees were still waiting to be processed.

In one poignant example, a January 22, 2025, flight carrying Afghan refugee children was canceled, preventing the children from reuniting with their families in Massachusetts. This incident exemplified the harsh impact of the halted refugee program on vulnerable individuals.

The letter also accused the Trump administration of acting in opposition to the American spirit of hospitality, pointing out that the indefinite suspension of the resettlement program undermines the country’s commitment to human rights and refugee protection.

Additionally, the letter emphasized that the recent U.S. policies not only contradict American values but also have far-reaching negative economic and social effects. The Congress members urged the administration to reinstate the refugee resettlement program immediately, reschedule canceled flights, and resume funding to aid refugees.

The current situation of Afghan refugees remains dire, with many stranded in precarious conditions due to the suspension of resettlement programs. These individuals continue to face uncertainty, forced to endure unsafe and unstable living environments as they await resolution.

The U.S. government’s decision to cut refugee admissions and halt aid programs for refugees contradicts the country’s foundational principles of offering sanctuary and support to those in need. Afghan refugees are facing some of the toughest challenges in modern history, with few opportunities for a stable future.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan continues to exacerbate the plight of refugees. With many Afghan families in limbo and no clear resolution in sight, international attention and urgent action are needed to address these pressing issues and provide the necessary assistance for those who need it most.

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