Afghans Who Aided U.S. Forces Face Uncertain Future After Trump Policies
Afghans who supported U.S. military operations now face uncertainty after Trump halted their resettlement programs. Despite years of background checks, many remain stranded in dangerous situations. Individuals like Roshangar fear Taliban reprisal, highlighting the moral obligation of the U.S. to honor promises made for their safety. This issue requires urgent resolution to protect those who aided U.S. efforts in Afghanistan.
A group of Afghans who assisted U.S. military efforts during the war now face uncertainty after President Trump’s executive orders halted programs that would allow their relocation to the U.S. Despite undergoing extensive background checks and waiting for years, these individuals now find themselves stranded in countries like Albania and in hiding in Afghanistan.
Many of these Afghans, such as Roshangar, a former legal adviser to the Afghan Air Force, fear retribution from the Taliban for their service. Roshangar, who had hoped to secure safety for his family in the U.S., expressed his disappointment at the sudden changes in policy, saying, “This was an unexpected move from Mr. Trump and everything went wrong.”
The abrupt termination of resettlement programs has left many veterans and supporters frustrated. They argue that it tarnishes the U.S.’s reputation and puts those who assisted American forces in danger. As noted by Shawn VanDiver of the AfghanEvac coalition, “It’s an absolute stain on our national honor that we’ve pulled the rug out…”.
During the evacuation from Kabul in August 2021, thousands were airlifted, but many Afghans who were promised relocation remain at risk. They are now navigating complicated processes to leave, with options effectively halted. This situation adds to the ongoing challenges faced by those who aided U.S. operations.
Some Afghans, like Hashmatullah Alam, had begun the relocation process, only to see it disrupted. He and his family risked their lives to support American missions and are now awaiting a resolution over his travel pause since December.
Others, like Khalid in Pakistan, found themselves unable to secure necessary funding for their families due to delays in the relocation process. He expressed distress over losing hope for a brighter future after having invested his efforts in supporting U.S. operations.
The plight of these individuals underlines the urgency of addressing their situation swiftly. Khalid’s plea reflects the sentiments of many: “We appeal to President Donald Trump to reverse his decision because we have lost whatever we had in Afghanistan.” The combined voices of Afghans and their supporters emphasize the moral obligation to honor relocation promises made to them.
The situation for Afghan allies remains precarious following Trump’s executive orders that halted resettlement programs. Many individuals who previously aided U.S. military operations are now facing significant risks in Afghanistan and elsewhere. Their calls for action underscore the perceived moral responsibility of the U.S. to provide safe passage and support for those who served alongside American forces. While the political landscape remains complex, there is a pressing need for solutions to these humanitarian concerns.
Original Source: apnews.com
