Washington: According to Khaama Press, US President Donald Trump has reduced funding for programs that aid the relocation and resettlement of Afghan allies in the United States, leaving thousands uncertain.
The reductions affect Afghans who risked their lives to serve alongside American forces during the conflict with the Taliban.
According to US media sources mentioned by Khaama Press, the budgets for Operation Enduring Freedom and Temporary Protected Status would expire in September. These programs were intended to safeguard Afghans who were susceptible to Taliban revenge.
The decision has aroused controversy in Washington. Congressman Scott Peters stated that reducing funds sends the wrong message to future partners and tarnishes America's image as a dependable ally.
He emphasized that individuals who had the bravery to oppose the Taliban were exactly who the United States should defend.
Civil society organizations shared these worries. Shawn VanDiver, director of the San Diego-based AfghanEvac project, warned that millions of Afghans would be at considerable risk if funding stopped, leaving them vulnerable to Taliban reprisal, according to Khaama Press.
According to congressional statistics, around 60,000 Afghans in Afghanistan are still awaiting asylum case evaluations, while over 170,000 are on standby for Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs).
Immigration lawyers have also voiced worry about the destiny of women and girls, noting that a return to Taliban power might deprive them of education, work, and fundamental liberties. One attorney said the notion was extremely terrifying.
Critics contend that the cuts not only jeopardize Afghan allies but also undermine US moral authority and credibility globally.
According to Khaama Press, without ongoing commitments, thousands of people who formerly fought alongside American troops may be forced to confront an unknown and hazardous future.
The issue came as United States President Donald Trump signed a proclamation this week commemorating the fourth anniversary of the Abbey Gate attack in Afghanistan. He remembered the horrific day and emphasized that the event demonstrated the inefficiency of the previous administration's departure strategy.
