Trump’s Travel Ban Endangers Afghan Allies: Urgent Action Needed to Ensure Their Safety

President Trump’s proposed travel ban poses a significant threat to thousands of Afghan allies seeking refuge in the U.S. Military veterans and nonprofits like No One Left Behind are mobilizing to ensure these individuals can enter the country before potential bans take effect. With significant funding cuts to refugee support, the situation remains critical as advocates raise awareness of the urgent need for action.

The recent travel ban initiated by President Trump has severely impacted thousands of Afghan allies, who have aided U.S. forces and are now seeking refuge in the United States. Amidst the potential ban, military veterans are striving to facilitate their entry before restrictions are enforced. Efforts are accelerated by the nonprofit organization No One Left Behind, which has mobilized resources to secure flights and support for these individuals facing dire consequences under Taliban rule.

President Trump’s executive order from January 20, which mandates a review of countries posing vetting concerns, has left the future of Afghan allies uncertain. With Afghanistan being a probable addition to the travel ban, advocates are hustling to ensure that Afghans eligible for Special Immigrant Visas can enter the United States before a complete suspension of travel is implemented.

No One Left Behind, led by Andrew Sullivan, has created an emergency fundraising campaign to assist in transporting Afghans who had aligned with U.S. military operations. This organization is not only facilitating flights but has also pivoted to ensure Afghan families receive assistance as funding for refugee resettlement has been put on hold. Many potential evacuees are currently waiting in neighboring countries such as Pakistan, Albania, and Qatar, while their visas are processed.

During Trump’s previous term, a similar travel ban was enacted, barring nationals from seven predominantly Muslim countries, and advocates fear the same will occur with Afghan applicants. The implications of such a ban would mean that numerous Afghans, who have faced violence and retribution for their assistance to the U.S., may remain stranded or face perilous returns to their homeland.

Advocates including military veterans and members of Congress have voiced concern over Trump’s policies. Some lawmakers have indicated that the executive orders have led to an immediate cessation of Afghan relocation efforts, asserting that many Afghans remaining in Afghanistan are at extreme risk of violence. Despite these urgent calls for action, the White House has not commented on the potential consequences for those awaiting entry.

Individuals like Aman Jafari, who served as an interpreter, shared the anxieties faced by families awaiting safe passage to America. With the intervention of supportive organizations like No One Left Behind, Jafari was able to reach safety with his family. Support from diverse community members showcases a commitment to assist those who risked their lives for U.S. forces, particularly in light of funding cuts to vital resettlement services.

As the situation evolves, No One Left Behind is striving to ensure that every Afghan with a visa can reach the U.S. and find stability upon arrival. The swift establishment of partnerships with local organizations demonstrates a concerted effort to facilitate the transition for these families and counteract the adverse effects of recent governmental orders. Several veteran groups continue to advocate for Afghans to secure their promised pathways to safety in the U.S., emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

President Trump’s travel ban threatens the safety and future of thousands of Afghan allies who supported U.S. military efforts. With the imminent deadline for a possible ban, organizations like No One Left Behind are urgently working to facilitate their entry into the United States. The challenges faced by these individuals reflect a critical need for continued advocacy and support to ensure that these wartime allies are not left behind in perilous circumstances.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com