Afghan Allies Plead for Exemption from Trump's Travel Ban Amid Growing Fears

Urgent Appeal from Afghan Allies

Islamabad: Afghans who assisted the US during its conflict with the Taliban have urgently requested President Donald Trump to exempt them from a newly imposed travel ban that threatens to send them back to Afghanistan, where they fear persecution.

This plea was made shortly after Trump declared a ban on entry for citizens from 12 nations, including Afghanistan.

The ban impacts thousands of Afghans who escaped Taliban rule and were previously approved for resettlement under a US program designed to protect those at risk due to their affiliations with American entities, media, and humanitarian organizations. However, this program was suspended by Trump in January, leaving many Afghans stranded in countries like Pakistan and Qatar.

In Pakistan, authorities have been deporting foreigners deemed to be residing illegally, predominantly targeting Afghans, which heightens the anxiety among these refugees.

"This is devastating news," expressed one Afghan, who had collaborated closely with US agencies before the Taliban regained control in 2021. He requested anonymity due to fears of retaliation from the Taliban and potential arrest by Pakistani officials.

He warned that the travel ban affecting around 20,000 Afghans in Pakistan might prompt the government to start deporting those awaiting resettlement in the US, stating, "President Trump has crushed our hopes."

He emphasized that returning to Afghanistan with his family would endanger their lives, as he had previously worked for the US Embassy in Kabul on initiatives promoting education.

"The Taliban opposes girls' education. While America can dictate its immigration policies, it should not forsake those who stood by it, risking their lives for a promised future," he added.

Another Afghan, Khalid Khan, voiced concerns that the new restrictions could lead to his arrest and that of many others in Pakistan.

He noted that police had previously spared him and his family due to requests from the US Embassy. "I served the US military for eight years and feel abandoned. Every month, Trump introduces a new regulation," Khan lamented. He fled to Pakistan three years ago.

"I am at a loss for words. Going back to Afghanistan would jeopardize my daughter's education. The Taliban has prohibited girls from attending school beyond sixth grade. If we return, my daughter will remain uneducated," he said.

He expressed that it no longer mattered whether individuals criticized Trump's policies.

"As long as Trump is in power, we are lost. I have surrendered all my concerns to Allah."

There was no immediate response from the Taliban-led government regarding the travel ban.

Pakistan has previously stated its commitment to collaborating with host nations to facilitate the resettlement of Afghans.