Trump’s Executive Order Blocks Refuge for Afghan Allies Who Supported U.S. Forces

Washington: A new executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump has blocked the path for Afghan civilians seeking refuge in the U.S., particularly those who supported American forces during their presence in Afghanistan. According to a report by *The New York Times*, thousands of Afghan citizens who worked alongside U.S. military forces during the Afghanistan War (2001-2021) and were approved for resettlement in the U.S. after the U.S. withdrawal are now facing a barrier due to Trump’s decision.

The report highlights that one Afghan former military officer, who had assisted U.S. forces and completed all necessary steps for relocation except for medical processing, has been left in hiding in Afghanistan, awaiting his chance to relocate to the U.S. Upon learning of President Trump’s executive order, the officer expressed frustration, stating that the U.S. has not only ignored the interests of Afghans but also failed to consider the implications for American interests and credibility.

Shawn Van Devor, president of the volunteer organization *Afghan Evac*, which helps resettle Afghan allies, condemned Trump’s executive order, calling it a betrayal of those who supported U.S. forces. He emphasized that this decision sends a dangerous message that American commitments are conditional and temporary.

The report also states that Trump’s executive order came as a blow to around 40,000 Afghans who were awaiting resettlement in the U.S., with 10,000 to 15,000 individuals who had completed the vetting process now in despair, as they were only waiting for flights to the U.S.

Under President Biden’s administration, a record 100,000 Afghans have been granted asylum, compared to around 85,000 under President Barack Obama. In contrast, during Trump’s first term (2016-2020), only 11,000 Afghans were resettled in the U.S.