Campaign in Washington Aims to Halt Afghan Deportations Amid Security Concerns
The Afghan Evacuation Organization has launched a campaign in Washington to prevent the expulsion of around 150 Afghan individuals. This initiative arises from security concerns regarding the return of these individuals to Afghanistan.
Efforts to Prevent Afghan Expulsions
The Afghan Evacuation Organization, a group dedicated to supporting Afghan migrants in the United States, has initiated a campaign aimed at stopping the deportation of nearly 150 Afghans. This action follows the announcement from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that new deportation dates for these individuals are set for November 16, despite a federal court in New York having temporarily halted deportations until November 7.
The three-day campaign is taking place in Washington, D.C., with the participation of about 100 individuals, including former American military personnel and their Afghan associates. The primary goal of the event is to lobby Congress members for the adoption of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible Afghans.
Responses from American Lawmakers
In reaction to the newly set deportation dates, 66 members of the U.S. House and Senate sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, demanding an immediate halt to this process. They expressed deep concerns that returning Afghans to their homeland would jeopardize their lives.
Concerns Over Resettlement Measures
Reports indicate that the Trump administration is planning to facilitate the transfer of these asylum seekers via Pakistan. This plan has raised alarm at the Afghan caretaker government’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which cited security risks associated with the return of these Afghans.
Call for Migrant Rights Protections
Immigrant rights organizations stress that the United States must legally grant permanent residency (green cards) to over 100,000 Afghans relocated since 2021. This measure is deemed essential for ensuring the safety and future of these individuals.
