U.S. Congressman Urges Trump To Drop Travel Ban That Puts Afghan Allies At Risk
US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has urged President Donald Trump to abandon plans for a travel ban that could prevent Afghan citizens from entering the United States.
In a letter sent to Trump on 7 March, Krishnamoorthi warned that such a ban would endanger thousands of US allies in Afghanistan. He said the decision would contradict American values and interests and expose many to Taliban retaliation.
On Monday, Krishnamoorthi shared a copy of his letter, expressing deep concern over reports that the Trump administration plans to impose a travel ban this week. He stated that the proposed ban would affect several countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The congressman cautioned that the move would leave thousands of Afghans in limbo, including former translators, military collaborators, and employees of the previous Afghan government. Many of these individuals were promised protection from the Taliban.
Krishnamoorthi argued that banning those who risked their lives for the US is unjust. He stressed that closing America’s doors to Afghans in the legal migration process would be a betrayal.
Reports of a possible travel ban have sparked fear among thousands of former US allies in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Many are waiting for the resumption of their relocation process.
At present, tens of thousands of Afghans with approved US resettlement applications face an uncertain future due to Trump’s recent executive orders.
On his first day back in office, Trump suspended all US refugee admissions. The decision has further impacted thousands of Afghan refugees, adding to their growing uncertainty.
