The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan refugees, citing an improved security situation in Afghanistan. This decision has sparked criticism from activists and former U.S. allies, who argue that the Taliban’s continued control over the country poses significant threats to the safety of Afghan refugees.
Zoubair Sangi, leader of the ‘Afgh’s for Trump’ movement, has expressed frustration with the administration’s decision. The group, which initially supported Donald Trump, feels abandoned as the administration moves to revoke the legal protections for thousands of Afghan refugees living in the U.S.
Sangi stated that the situation in Afghanistan is still dangerous, with the Taliban targeting anyone who worked with the U.S. government or allied forces. He urged Trump to reconsider the decision, emphasizing that the lives of these individuals are at risk. He also highlighted the restrictions placed on women in Taliban-controlled areas, where they are subject to severe limitations on their freedoms.
Despite his criticism, Sangi has not withdrawn his support for Trump. He praised Trump for refusing to recognize the Taliban and for ending foreign aid to Afghanistan. He urged Trump to avoid any deals with the Taliban, arguing that such engagement is not in line with America First principles.
The decision to end TPS has led to a debate over the safety of Afghan refugees. Activists argue that the Taliban’s rule has not brought stability or security to the country. While the administration claims the security situation has improved, critics believe the Taliban continues to pose a significant threat to the lives of Afghan refugees.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem justified the decision by citing an improved security situation and a stabilizing economy in Afghanistan. She emphasized that the administration is returning TPS to its original, temporary intent. However, critics argue that this move could have a significant impact on the lives of thousands of Afghan refugees living in the United States.
The ‘Afghans for Trump’ group is currently seeking to make the issue of Afghanistan’s refugee crisis and the 2021 U.S. withdrawal a key focus in the upcoming election. They have called on Trump to reconsider the decision and to prioritize the safety of Afghan refugees.
Former Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Mike McCaul has also expressed concerns about the decision. He argued that the security situation in Afghanistan has not improved and urged the administration to continue protecting Afghan allies who have risked their lives to help the U.S. military.
The decision has prompted Fox News to reach out to the White House and DHS for comment, highlighting the significance of the issue in the current political landscape.