Trump’s Travel Ban Poses Danger to Afghan Allies Seeking Refuge in U.S.
The future of Afghan allies seeking refuge in the U.S. remains uncertain due to a potential travel ban from the Trump administration. Military veterans are working diligently to secure their entry before restrictions are enforced. No One Left Behind has raised significant funding to assist in their relocation, as many Afghans await processing of their Special Immigrant Visas and face risks of retribution from the Taliban. The organization aims to ensure that Afghan allies receive support during their transition to life in the United States.
The fate of many Afghan allies who assisted U.S. troops has become uncertain following President Trump’s administration; thus, military veterans are striving to ensure their safe passage to the United States before the anticipated travel ban is enforced. Since taking office, President Trump issued an executive order mandating the compilation of a list of countries from which entry into the U.S. might be restricted due to inadequate vetting and screening. With a 60-day deadline looming, support for Afghan allies has intensified.
No One Left Behind, a prominent nonprofit organization, has raised significant funds to assist Afghan families seeking refuge in the U.S. Following the U.S. military’s evacuation operations that brought 78,000 Afghans to safety during the chaotic pullout in August 2021, tens of thousands remain in limbo, waiting for the completion of their travel documentation. Many Afghans have applied for Special Immigrant Visas, allowing them to settle in the U.S. with their families, yet they encounter lengthy processing delays.
Former President Trump previously instituted a travel ban that included several majority Muslim countries and is now considering adding Afghanistan, jeopardizing the entry of these wartime allies. Such a development could leave them vulnerable to retribution from the Taliban, who view their collaboration with the U.S. as treasonous. The cancellation of refugee resettlement funding further exacerbated their predicament by shifting transportation costs onto the individuals themselves.
Andrew Sullivan, Executive Director of No One Left Behind, indicated the urgent need for immediate action, highlighting the dire situation faced by Afghan allies. “People with visas in their passports saw their pathway to safety stripped away overnight,” stated Sonia Norton, the group’s advocacy director. The organization has transitioned to emergency fundraising to ensure these families can travel safely to the U.S. and integrate into their new environment.
As of now, approximately 37,000 Afghans and their families have received Special Immigrant Visas since 2009, but many remain at risk. Concerned voices, including three Republican Congress members, have noted that delays in relocation pose serious threats to these individuals, stating that for many, remaining in Afghanistan could be fatal. The White House has yet to comment on the situation.
Individual stories reflect the urgency of their circumstances; for instance, Aman Jafari, who worked with the U.S. Navy SEALs, expressed relief upon reaching the U.S. thanks to the support of No One Left Behind. Donations from citizens, regardless of their military affiliations, have been crucial in aiding these allies in their transitions. Community organizations have stepped in to provide services and assistance while securing housing and resources necessary for their successful resettlement.
The organization continues to foster partnerships with various local groups to ensure that every Afghan with a visa can reach the U.S. By filling the gaps left by halted funding, initiatives like No One Left Behind aim to create opportunities for Afghan allies to build new lives in safety and security. The work remains ongoing as they strive to support these individuals on their journey to a hopeful future.
In summary, the ramifications of President Trump’s proposed travel ban pose a substantial threat to the safety of Afghan allies who assisted U.S. forces during the war in Afghanistan. Organizations like No One Left Behind are pivotal in facilitating their relocation to the U.S. and supporting their integration. Urgent fundraising efforts have been initiated to cover travel costs and housing for these individuals, who face serious risks if they remain in Afghanistan. The collective efforts of veterans and community organizations underscore the importance of honoring commitments made to those who risked their lives to support American troops.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
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