The Trump administration has announced the termination of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, which provided deportation protections to thousands of Afghan individuals. This decision has left many in the Afghan community uncertain about their future status in the United States.
Background on Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- Established: The TPS program was created by President George W. Bush in 2002.
- Extension: President Joe Biden extended TPS last year due to ongoing human rights abuses by the Taliban and threats from local terrorist groups.
- Current Status: The Department of Homeland Security has decided to revert TPS to its original temporary intent.
As of last year, over 8,000 Afghans had been approved for TPS. The decision to end these protections comes despite the ongoing humanitarian crises in Afghanistan since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021.
Concerns from the Afghan Community
Critics of the decision argue that many Afghans face significant dangers if they return home, particularly those who:
- Assisted American forces.
- Spoke out against human rights abuses under previous governments.
- Belong to vulnerable groups, such as women or ethnic minorities like Hazaras and Sikhs.
Ali Dizboni, executive director of Afghan Americans for Justice Advocacy Group Inc., emphasized that the issue extends beyond those who worked with U.S. troops. He noted that many Afghans are still waiting for special immigrant visas, with over 70% of applicants pending approval after years of waiting.
Uncertainty and Fear
The end of deportation protections has left thousands of Afghan immigrants anxious about their future in the U.S. Many fear deportation back to a country where they could face persecution or even death.
Sanaullah Samadiyaiqbalzadaa is one individual caught in this precarious situation. He has been denied asylum claims multiple times but was granted TPS protection three years ago amid rising violence in Afghanistan. He expresses deep concern about returning home, stating:
"I cannot go back home without risking death, but I cannot stay here either without facing arrest at any moment due to my lack of legal immigration status."
Samadiyaiqbalzadaa’s story reflects the broader struggles faced by many undocumented immigrants who live in fear of discovery and deportation.
The Broader Impact
Reports have surfaced about deteriorating conditions in Afghan prisons, particularly for political prisoners. Families are left in the dark, uncertain about the fate of their loved ones. This uncertainty creates a pervasive fear within the community, as individuals worry about the consequences of their immigration status.
For now, the focus remains on the stories of individuals like Sanaullah Samadiyaiqbalzadaa, who embody the resilience and determination of the Afghan community. Despite the challenges, they continue to hold onto hope and strive for a better future, navigating the complexities of their circumstances with courage and strength.
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