President Trump’s executive order poses a threat to Afghan allies who served U.S. forces, possibly leading to a new travel ban that would restrict their entry into the United States. Nonprofit organizations, particularly No One Left Behind, are urgently raising funds and arranging flights for these individuals. The situation is dire, as many Afghans remain stranded, facing danger from the Taliban for their service.
The travel ban initiated by President Trump has jeopardized the fate of thousands of Afghan allies who served alongside American forces. With military veterans working tirelessly to expedite their relocation to the United States, the urgency has increased significantly as the possibility of a travel ban looms. An executive order requires cabinet members to compile a list of countries with inadequate vetting information, which could restrict entry for Afghan nationals among others.
The organization No One Left Behind is raising funds and organizing travel for Afghans eligible for Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), allowing them to find safety in the U.S. While past evacuations assisted thousands, many remain stranded in neighboring countries, facing potential danger from the Taliban due to their service to American troops. The ongoing chaos in Afghanistan has resulted in approximately 78,000 individuals being evacuated, with tens of thousands still waiting for their chance to relocate.
With the reinstatement of policies limiting refugee admissions, Afghans who previously held SIVs now face financial burdens for their travel. Sonia Norton of No One Left Behind emphasized the abrupt loss of opportunities for those who had secured visas, stating, “People with visas in their passports saw their pathway to safety stripped away overnight.” The organization aims to support these families through fundraising efforts and logistical assistance.
The consequences of a new travel ban could leave many Afghan allies in a dangerous predicament. The Taliban views these individuals as traitors, and many have already faced violence as a result of their association with U.S. forces. Andrew Sullivan from No One Left Behind noted the grave risks for those remaining in limbo and the necessity of proactive measures to rescue them from imminent threats.
Despite the challenges posed by executive orders, veterans and civic groups have rallied to support Afghan families. Congressman Michael McCaul and others highlighted the urgent need for support, remarking, “For many Afghans in the pipeline, staying in Afghanistan is a death sentence.” They urged President Trump to reconsider the impact of his decisions concerning Afghan relocations.
Once U.S. visas for Afghan allies are secured, organizations like No One Left Behind strive to provide support in their new environment. The suspension of refugee funding has left many nonprofits unable to assist adequately. However, partnerships with local community organizations are crucial for ensuring these families can establish themselves successfully post-relocation.
As Afghan allies like Aman Jafari settle into their new lives, they express gratitude for their opportunity in America, though they remain concerned for those left behind. The situation remains fluid, and efforts by No One Left Behind and associated groups continue to ensure that promises made to these brave individuals are fulfilled.
The plight of Afghan allies remains precarious amidst the potential reinstatement of travel bans by the Trump administration. Organizations like No One Left Behind play a critical role in securing the futures of those who aided U.S. forces, raising funds and logistical support to facilitate their relocation. The commitment to these individuals must persist, as they face threats to their safety from the Taliban and grapple with the complexities of their immigration status. Ultimately, it is imperative to honor promises made to these allies and assist them in establishing new lives in the United States.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
