U.S. Senators Warn Trump’s Immigration Policies Endanger Afghan Allies

U.S. Senators Warn Trump’s Immigration Policies Endanger Afghan Allies

A group of U.S. Senators has expressed serious concern over recent immigration policies and foreign aid decisions made by the Trump administration. In a letter addressed to the U.S. Secretary of Defense, Secretary of State, and Secretary of Homeland Security, the senators warned that these actions are putting Afghan allies in a dangerous position.

The letter, which was made public on Tuesday, February 4, raises concerns about the severe consequences of these decisions, including Trump’s executive order on refugee admissions and cuts to foreign aid. The letter was signed by several senators, with Senator Amy Klobuchar leading the initiative, although other signatories were not named.

The senators highlighted that standing by those who stood with the U.S. in Afghanistan is a matter of national honor and security. They emphasized the importance of fulfilling America’s obligations to Afghan partners who helped the U.S. military during the war.

The letter mentioned various policy decisions that have worsened the crisis for Afghan allies. These include the suspension of foreign aid programs by the U.S. State Department and the gradual termination of the Humanitarian Parole program by the Department of Homeland Security. The senators noted that these actions have led to doubts about America’s commitment to its war partners and their families.

The letter also pointed out the real-life consequences of these policies, such as the uncertain futures of Afghan citizens stranded in countries like Qatar and Albania. The fate of Afghan individuals under the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program and those under the Humanitarian Parole program remains unclear, further exacerbating the crisis.

Additionally, the senators stressed that resettlement services and support for Afghan citizens who arrived in the U.S. before January 20 have been disrupted. They called for clarity from the U.S. government about future resettlement processes and services for Afghan refugees.

The senators specifically requested that the Department of Defense clarify whether the U.S. military and civilian personnel will still be able to submit family reunification applications for Afghan allies. They also asked the State Department to confirm that the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program will continue and that processing for applicants and their families will proceed.

Furthermore, they requested that the Department of Homeland Security provide clarity on the future of the Humanitarian Parole program and whether it will continue under specific conditions. The senators emphasized that a 90-day review period for these policies, as outlined in the executive orders, would worsen the uncertainty faced by Afghan allies and their families.

The letter reflects the growing concern over the Trump administration’s policies, which have been widely criticized by human rights groups for undermining U.S. ethical obligations and weakening the country’s strategic position among its allies, particularly Afghanistan. As these policies unfold, Afghan allies face a precarious future, and immediate clarity is needed to prevent further harm.