US Suspends Refugee Resettlement for Afghan Allies

Following President Trump's executive order suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) effective January 27, thousands of Afghan refugees, including those who aided U.S. forces during the war, have been left in limbo. Advocates warn that the suspension endangers at least 15,000 Afghans, including minors and families of U.S. military personnel, who are currently awaiting resettlement. Many have already faced violence or persecution under Taliban rule and are now at risk of being stranded in neighboring countries like Pakistan. The executive order mandates a review of the program's alignment with U.S. interests, but critics argue it fails to adequately protect those who supported the U.S. mission. AfghanEvac and other advocacy groups have expressed urgent concerns about the implications of this decision, highlighting the emotional toll on veterans and the humanitarian crisis unfolding for Afghans. Calls for exemption from the suspension have intensified, as refugees fear for their lives should they be forced to return to Afghanistan.