President Donald Trump's executive order to suspend the US refugee program has raised concerns for at least 2,000 Afghans who were previously approved to resettle in the US. #AfghanEvac, a coalition of organizations advocating for Afghan allies' safety, warns that these individuals are now in limbo, waiting for resolution.
The affected group includes families of around 200 US service members and those who have already relocated to the US. While flights for these individuals have not been canceled yet, the government is working on implementing the order.
The executive order, titled 'Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program,' cites potential detrimental effects on US interests and suspends the program for at least 90 days starting January 27. The Secretaries of Homeland Security and State will submit reports to President Trump every 90 days to assess the program's alignment with US interests.
Republicans have criticized the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan under former President Joe Biden, highlighting the impact on service members, veterans, and Afghan allies. #AfghanEvac, supported by over 700 signatures including 400 veterans, urges the continuation of resettling Afghan allies in the US.
Despite the suspension, #AfghanEvac remains willing to collaborate with the Trump administration. However, the uncertainty surrounding the refugee program's future is causing distress among those who have already undergone the vetting process and are prepared to travel.
Shawn VanDiver, the organization's founder, emphasizes the urgency of fulfilling promises made to Afghan allies, as prolonged delays could have far-reaching consequences. The suspension not only affects the immediate 2,000 individuals but also poses challenges for potentially tens of thousands more.
VanDiver stresses the importance of honoring commitments to Afghan allies, as failing to do so not only impacts individuals' lives but also raises national security concerns. The organization remains committed to advocating for the safety and resettlement of Afghan allies, urging swift action to address the current uncertainties.
