U.S. launches emergency hotline for Afghans facing deportation from Pakistan

Emergency Hotline

Responding to the escalating challenges faced by Afghans in Pakistan, the US State Department has launched an emergency hotline designed to aid individuals on a US immigration and resettlement pathway who are confronted with deportation or detainment in Pakistan. The hotline operates from 8 AM to midnight Islamabad time, Monday through Saturday, offering assistance via both phone and WhatsApp (text only) at +1 757-916-4100.

The initiation of this hotline coincides with Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to expel illegal immigrants from the country, prompted by a surge in terrorist activities, with several attacks allegedly involving Afghan nationals. Pakistan had set a November 1 deadline for approximately 1.73 million undocumented Afghans, among other illegal immigrants, to voluntarily leave the country or face forced expulsion.

Caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai provided an update, stating that around 400,000 illegal immigrants have already left the country. This decision has led to concerns about the fate of Afghan applicants awaiting visas to the US and other Western nations.

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar had previously indicated that Pakistan was working on arrangements for Afghans awaiting visas, particularly those deemed at-risk individuals. Afghan applicants for special visas to the US and other Western nations were granted a limited time to stay in Pakistan. Islamabad is collaborating with Afghan groups to establish an agreement aimed at safeguarding individuals facing the risk of persecution in their home country.

In October, a coalition of former US officials and resettlement organizations urged Pakistan to exempt thousands of Afghan applicants for special US visas or refugee relocation from deportation to Afghanistan. This development highlights the complexities surrounding the protection and relocation of vulnerable populations amidst geopolitical shifts and the aftermath of the conflict in Afghanistan. Continuous diplomatic efforts and humanitarian considerations are essential to navigate the evolving situation and ensure the welfare of affected individuals.