Afghanistan Peace Campaign
Dina Titus, Representative of Nevada, and Gregory Meeks, Democratic Member of Congress from New York, have criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to close the Afghan Refugee Resettlement and Relocation Office in the United States, calling it “shameful.”
On Wednesday, February 19, both Democratic representatives responded to reports about the closure of the Afghan refugee resettlement office. Titus, in a tweet, said, “Trump is turning his back on those who risked everything to stand with the U.S., and that is shameful.”
Titus further mentioned that the office had worked to resettle many Afghans who faced security threats and the “Taliban’s danger.” She emphasized the vital role the office played in helping these individuals find safety.
Gregory Meeks, the Democratic Congressman from New York, also stressed that “it is crucial for America’s credibility to remain faithful to our commitment to the Afghans who fought alongside us.”
Recently, Reuters reported, citing sources, that officials at the Afghan relocation office had been warned to prepare for its closure in April 2025. If this happens, at least 200,000 eligible Afghan refugees will be barred from relocating to the U.S.
Meanwhile, Shawn VanDiver, President and Founder of the Afghan Evacuation Support Group “Afghan Evac,” stated that the U.S. State Department is considering plans for the permanent closure of the Afghan resettlement office. However, no final decision has been made yet regarding its closure.
VanDiver referred to the U.S. decision as “a national disgrace” and “a betrayal of Afghan allies,” insisting that the U.S. must honor its commitment to the Afghan veterans who fought for them.
This decision has sparked widespread criticism among U.S. lawmakers and refugee advocates. The closure of the Afghan resettlement office could have severe consequences for thousands of vulnerable refugees, undermining the promises made by the U.S. to its Afghan allies.