The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The United States is still in discussions with several countries to resettle more than 1,000 Afghans who assisted U.S. forces, while defending its refugee policies, the Daily Mail reported.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told lawmakers that
Washington is engaging with multiple countries to find solutions for Afghan
allies stranded abroad, many of whom have been waiting in Qatar for more than a
year.
Rubio said current directives restrict the entry of Afghans
into the United States but noted that negotiations are ongoing with countries
willing to accept some of those affected.
Lawmakers, including Grace Meng, raised concerns during a
congressional hearing, questioning why previously vetted Afghan allies have not
been admitted despite earlier commitments.
Advocates warned that returning the refugees to Afghanistan
could expose them to retaliation by the Taliban, while proposals to send them
to other conflict-affected regions have also drawn criticism.
Rubio said no final decisions have been made on relocation
destinations, adding that responsibility would likely be shared among several
countries rather than one.
According to the report, discussions have included countries
such as Botswana and Malaysia, as U.S. officials seek options for those
awaiting resettlement.
Advocacy groups have criticized the U.S. government’s
handling of Afghan allies, saying it risks abandoning individuals who supported
American forces during the war.
Rubio also defended broader refugee policies, including the
admission of white South Africans, saying decisions are based on U.S. national
interests and the ability of migrants to integrate into society.
The issue remains under debate as policymakers weigh
humanitarian concerns against immigration restrictions.
