Desperate Pleas from Those at Risk
Afghans who fled Taliban rule are urgently appealing to U.S. President Donald Trump to rescind the suspension of a refugee resettlement program. Many of these individuals risked their lives supporting American forces during the years of U.S. military involvement in Afghanistan and now find themselves in perilous situations. They face threats and violence in Pakistan, where an estimated 15,000 Afghans are awaiting approval for resettlement under the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
Program Suspension Triggers Concern
The Trump administration recently announced a three-month suspension of the USRAP, effective from January 27. During this time, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, will assess whether resuming the program aligns with U.S. interests. This decision has ignited fears among Afghan refugees, many of whom had already scheduled flights to the United States.
Open Letter to U.S. Leaders
In an open letter to President Trump, Congress, and human rights advocates, the advocacy group Afghan USRAP Refugees urged the administration to reverse the suspension. The group highlighted the dire risks they face from the Taliban, who see them as traitors for aiding the U.S. mission. They warned that returning to Afghanistan could lead to arrest, torture, or death, emphasizing the critical need for protection.
Life in Limbo for Refugees
The circumstances of refugees in Pakistan remain dire, with reports of arbitrary arrests and deportations affecting their safety. Hadisa Bibi, a former university student and women’s rights advocate who fled to Pakistan last month, expressed her disappointment upon learning about the suspension. She had hoped that resettlement would facilitate her educational aspirations and provide a secure future. Similarly, Mahnoosh Monir, a former medical student, lamented the dire situation for women in Afghanistan, where access to education and workplaces has been severely restricted.
Broader Crisis Facing Afghan Refugees
The United Nations reports that approximately 1.4 million Afghan girls have been denied education due to Taliban-imposed restrictions, making Afghanistan unique in globally prohibiting female secondary and higher education. The plight of Afghan refugees extends beyond Pakistan, with at least 3,200 Afghans currently residing in Albania, where the government has agreed to extend their stay amid ongoing visa delays. The uncertainty surrounding their future emphasizes the urgent need for action and support from the international community.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Yahoo
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