No One Left Behind, a nonprofit organization, is actively fundraising to help Afghan allies escape potential Taliban retribution amid President Trump’s travel ban threats. Many allies are stranded while awaiting U.S. entry on Special Immigrant Visas. Veteran groups express concern for their safety, as ongoing support is required for both relocation and integration into American society.
The nonprofit organization No One Left Behind is raising funds to help evacuate Afghan allies who face potential retribution from the Taliban following President Trump’s travel ban threats. Military veterans are working diligently to bring these individuals to the United States before restrictions take effect, particularly after Trump’s executive order necessitated a review of vetting processes for various countries, including Afghanistan.
Since the U.S. military’s evacuation of 78,000 Afghans in 2021, many others who assisted American forces are awaiting entry into the United States. Afghan wartime allies, eligible for a Special Immigrant Visa, have experienced significant delays and are currently stranded in neighboring countries while processing their paperwork, which has increased urgency for their relocation.
Trump’s previous policies barred citizens from several Muslim-majority countries, and there is concern that Afghan nationals may be included in any renewed travel bans. If such measures are implemented, Afghans who have aided U.S. efforts risk indefinite stranding, and the same executive actions have halted funds for refugee assistance, complicating their resettlement further.
No One Left Behind, founded in 2014, has pivoted from supporting Afghan families’ integration to an emergency fundraising campaign to cover travel costs. Many of those with special visas now face hurdles as prior contracts that funded their transport were terminated, leaving them unable to afford their flights.
A coalition of veteran groups express deep concern regarding the plight of Afghan allies, emphasizing the life-threatening situation many face if forced to remain in Afghanistan. There are reports of violence against these individuals, who are viewed as traitors by the Taliban, which heightens the urgency for their relocation to safety in the United States.
Individuals like Aman Jafari, who worked as an interpreter for U.S. forces, have shared their distress over the situation, noting the dire implications of being unable to afford travel due to the ban on flights. Organizations like No One Left Behind have stepped in to assist families during this crucial time, ensuring they reach the U.S. safely and begin their new lives.
As the organization continues to work with community groups across the nation, they aim not only to facilitate flights for Afghan allies but also to provide transitional support upon arrival, ensuring they receive necessary assistance in securing housing and employment. Jafari, grateful for these efforts, looks forward to building a better future in America for his family.
The situation surrounding Afghan allies seeking refuge in the United States remains precarious amid threats of renewed travel bans. Nonprofits like No One Left Behind are pivotal in facilitating their relocation and ensuring integration support. These actions underscore the urgent need to honor commitments made to those who assisted U.S. forces, as many Afghan nationals face life-threatening retribution by the Taliban. Continuous advocacy and funding efforts for these allies will be crucial in fostering their safety and stability in the United States.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
