Warning to Leave US: Thousands of Afghan Refugees in California receive deportation letters

May 17, 2025
Khaama Press

Thousands of Afghan refugees in California received urgent deportation letters, sparking fear and confusion amid ongoing immigration policy uncertainties.

In recent weeks, thousands of Afghan refugees residing in California have received deportation notices from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These letters demand that recipients leave the United States within seven days, warning that failure to comply will result in federal enforcement actions. The notices have caused widespread anxiety among the Afghan community, particularly in the Bay Area, which hosts one of the largest Afghan populations in the U.S.

Many of the affected individuals entered the U.S. under humanitarian parole after the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. While some were granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS), the Biden administration’s decision to provide immigration relief has been reversed. The DHS announced the termination of TPS for Afghanistan, effective July 12, 2025, citing improved conditions in the country. This move aligns with the Trump administration’s broader immigration enforcement policies, which have drawn criticism from refugee advocacy groups.

The deportation notices have raised concerns due to their inconsistencies. Some letters lack personal identifiers such as names or case numbers, leading to confusion among recipients. In certain instances, individuals received follow-up letters stating that the initial notice was sent in error. These discrepancies have exacerbated the fear and uncertainty within the Afghan community.

Afghan community leaders and legal advocates are mobilizing to support those affected. Attorney Spojamie Nasiri reported that many of her clients have received the deportation notices, prompting widespread fear and reluctance to engage in daily activities. Community organizations are offering legal assistance and guidance to help individuals navigate the complex immigration landscape.

The situation highlights the precarious legal status of many Afghan evacuees. A report by CBS News revealed that over 36,000 Afghan evacuees lack a direct pathway to permanent legal status in the U.S., leaving them vulnerable to deportation if their asylum claims are unsuccessful. The proposed Afghan Adjustment Act, which aims to provide a legal pathway to permanent residency for these individuals, has stalled in Congress, leaving many in legal limbo.

The recent deportation notices to Afghan refugees in California underscore the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform. While the U.S. has a history of providing refuge to those fleeing persecution, the current policy shifts have placed many at risk of being returned to a volatile and dangerous environment.

It is imperative for lawmakers to act swiftly to pass legislation that offers a clear and permanent legal status to Afghan evacuees. Failure to do so not only betrays the promises made to those who risked their lives to assist U.S. efforts but also undermines the nation’s commitment to humanitarian values.

Warning to Leave US: Thousands of Afghan Refugees in California receive deportation letters
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Biden’s Secret Afghanistan document sparks new controversy

May 17, 2025
Khaama Press

Joe Biden admitted keeping a classified Afghanistan document after his vice presidency, claiming it was for historical record and personal perspective.

Former President Joe Biden has revealed that he retained a classified document concerning Afghanistan after leaving the vice presidency, intending to preserve it for historical record. The document, reportedly found among his personal books, contains sensitive information about U.S. military and foreign policy in Afghanistan. Biden acknowledged keeping the document during a special counsel’s investigation, stating he wanted to “record history” and preserve his perspective on Afghanistan.

The document in question includes a 2009 handwritten memo to President Barack Obama, expressing Biden’s opposition to the proposed troop surge in Afghanistan. These materials were classified at the Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information level and were discovered in a box in Biden’s Delaware garage, alongside other personal items. Photographs of the storage area showed the documents mixed with household items like a ladder and a wicker basket.

Despite the classified nature of the documents, the special counsel’s report concluded that no criminal charges were warranted. The report noted that Biden had the authority to keep classified documents at his home during his vice presidency and subsequent presidency. Investigators also found no evidence suggesting that Biden willfully retained the documents after leaving office.

The discovery of these documents has reignited debates over the handling of classified materials by public officials. While the special counsel’s report did not recommend charges, it highlighted concerns about the secure storage and management of sensitive information.

This incident adds to the ongoing scrutiny of Biden’s handling of classified materials, following previous revelations of documents found at his private office and other locations. The controversy continues to be a point of contention in political discussions, with critics questioning the adequacy of safeguards for classified information.

The retention of classified documents by former officials raises significant concerns about the security and handling of sensitive information. While legal conclusions may vary, the public’s trust in the management of such materials is paramount.

Biden’s Secret Afghanistan document sparks new controversy
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US Lawmakers urge Congress to approve 20,000 additional Visas for Afghan allies

May 17, 2025
Khaama Press

U.S. lawmakers are pushing Congress to approve 20,000 additional Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for Afghan allies at risk.

Representative Jason Crow (D-CO) has called on Congress to allocate 20,000 additional Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for Afghan nationals who assisted U.S. forces during the Afghanistan conflict. Crow emphasized the moral obligation to protect these individuals, many of whom face retribution from the Taliban due to their collaboration.

The proposal has garnered bipartisan backing, with over 100 members of the House of Representatives endorsing the request. The lawmakers argue that extending the SIV program is both a security imperative and a moral duty, ensuring that Afghan allies are not left vulnerable to extremist groups.

Despite the urgency, the SIV application process remains complex and time-consuming. Applicants must undergo rigorous security screenings, biometric data collection, and multiple interviews, leading to delays that leave many in precarious situations in Afghanistan or neighboring countries.

In March 2024, Congress authorized an additional 12,000 SIVs for Afghan allies, raising the program’s cap to 38,500 visas. However, this increase falls short of the 20,000 visas requested by lawmakers, leaving many applicants still awaiting processing.

Advocacy groups and veterans continue to press for legislative action to protect Afghan allies. The Afghan Allies Protection Act, introduced in 2023, seeks to extend the SIV program through 2029 and increase the number of available visas, addressing systemic issues and expediting the application process.

The call for an additional 20,000 SIVs underscores the United States’ commitment to honoring its promises to Afghan partners who risked their lives to support American efforts. As the situation in Afghanistan remains volatile, timely legislative action is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of these individuals.

It is imperative that Congress acts swiftly to pass the necessary legislation, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to those who stood by the United States during its mission in Afghanistan. Failure to do so would not only jeopardize the lives of Afghan allies but also tarnish the credibility of American promises abroad.

US Lawmakers urge Congress to approve 20,000 additional Visas for Afghan allies
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Afghanistan Ranks Fifth Globally in Internal Displacement

May 17, 2025
TOLOnesws
17 May 2025

Most of these displacements were caused by floods in the provinces of Badakhshan, Takhar, and Baghlan.

The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) reported that Afghanistan, with 4.2 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), ranks fifth globally in terms of internal displacement.

In its latest report, the center stated that in 2024 alone, 1.3 million people in Afghanistan were displaced due to natural disasters, the highest number in the world. Most of these displacements were caused by floods in the provinces of Badakhshan, Takhar, and Baghlan.

The report notes: “Following the withdrawal of foreign forces and the takeover of the government by the Taliban on 15 August 2021, large-scale conflict and the number of associated displacements reduced significantly in Afghanistan. Still, it was home to 4.2 million IDPs by conflict and violence, the fifth largest number globally at the end of 2024.”

In an IDP camp located in Kabul’s 5th police district, more than 600 families are residing, having fled their home provinces over the past two decades due to war and natural disasters.

Mohammad Yousuf, one of the displaced individuals, told TOLOnews: “We came here during Karzai’s government because there was war in our area. It has been about twenty years since we took refuge and started living here.”

The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations said that in 1403 (April 20, 2024 – March 19, 2025), more than 13,000 families were displaced by natural disasters. Of these, 11,580 families have returned to their original areas after receiving aid.

Ministry spokesperson Abdulmutalib Haqqani said: “Due to droughts and natural disasters, many families were forced to leave their original areas and move elsewhere. In 1403, a total of 13,979 families were displaced, and 11,580 families have returned to their areas after receiving assistance.”

Earlier, in September 2024, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) expressed concern over the condition of IDPs in Afghanistan, saying that the country hosts more than 3 million internally displaced people and nearly 6 million refugees living in neighboring and regional countries.

Afghanistan Ranks Fifth Globally in Internal Displacement
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Regional, Global Envoys Intensify Diplomacy for Afghan Future

May 17, 2025
Bibi Amina Hakimi
TOLOnews’ Reporter
16 May 2025

The special representatives of China and Uzbekistan also met with officials from Turkey and Sweden to discuss issues concerning Afghanistan.

As part of continued diplomatic engagements related to Afghanistan, Special Representative from Pakistan Mohammad Sadiq, Uzbekistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Ismatulla Irgashev and Special Representative of China for Afghanistan Yue Xiaoyong, have recently held meetings aimed at enhancing coordination and cooperation regarding the situation in Afghanistan.

Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan’s special representative for Afghanistan, in separate meetings with his British counterpart, Andrew McCoubrey, and the Australian High Commissioner in Islamabad, discussed regional developments and the strengthening of cooperation on issues related to Afghanistan.

Mohammad Sadiq stated: “The meeting focused on regional developments and enhancing cooperation on Afghanistan-related issues. We discussed ways to strengthen engagement and explore avenues for future collaboration.”

Aziz Maarej, a former diplomat, said: “If the UK and Australia, along with Pakistan as strategic allies, genuinely wish to collaborate on resolving issues in Afghanistan and the region, it could be very effective. They have sufficient knowledge, provided that their objectives are clear and Afghanistan is prepared to engage.”

Meanwhile, the special representatives of China and Uzbekistan also met with officials from Turkey and Sweden to discuss issues concerning Afghanistan.

These meetings aimed to assess recent developments in Afghanistan and coordinate regional efforts, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in Afghanistan as a key element for regional security.

Ismatullah Irgashov, the special representative of the president of Uzbekistan for Afghanistan, stated: “Special attention was given to exchanging views on the situation in Afghanistan and possible forms of humanitarian cooperation. The meeting was constructive and emphasized mutual willingness to deepen practical dialogues.”

Yue Xiaoyong, China’s special representative for Afghanistan, said: “We agreed to strengthen our cooperation to support Afghanistan’s reconstruction.”

Moeen Gul Samkanai, a political analyst, remarked: “Many countries are discussing Afghanistan, which shows their intent to establish stronger political, diplomatic, and economic ties with Afghanistan.”

Najib Rahman Shumal, another political analyst, said: “Given Afghanistan’s current crises, without the support of the international community, regional and global powers, overcoming these challenges is extremely difficult. Therefore, these meetings and visits by special envoys can play a crucial role in establishing relations with the people and interim government of Afghanistan and in providing economic assistance.”

This comes after a recent trilateral meeting between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China hosted by Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting foreign minister. The focus of the discussions was on expanding political and economic relations between Afghanistan and regional countries.

Regional, Global Envoys Intensify Diplomacy for Afghan Future
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Trump Criticizes US Withdrawal, Cites Strategic Loss of Bagram

May 17, 2025
Bibi Amina Hakimi
TOLOnews’ Reporter
15 May 2025

He once again criticized the manner in which US forces withdrew from Afghanistan.

Donald Trump, the president of the United States, has once again claimed that China is present at Bagram.

Speaking at a US military base in Qatar, Trump emphasized that Washington should have maintained the Bagram base, as it is only an hour away from China.

He once again criticized the manner in which US forces withdrew from Afghanistan.

The US president stated: “We wouldn’t have had the disaster of Afghanistan, the leaving. We were getting out, but we’re getting out with dignity and strength. We’re going to keep Bagram Air Base. We weren’t going to give that up because it’s one hour away from China. One hour. You know who occupies it now? China. The damage that that administration did to this country is legendary.”

This is not the first time Trump has commented on the Bagram airbase. He has previously highlighted Bagram’s importance to the US and repeatedly claimed that the base is now under China’s control—claims the interim government has called baseless.

Hadi Quraishi, military affairs analyst said: “They think Mr. Biden made a mistake in evacuating Bagram, while that’s not the case. Bagram should have specifically been handed over to us and their presence should have ended.”

Sayed Ebadullah Sadiq, political analyst said: “What need does China have for a military presence at Bagram, being only an hour away? China is a major power, and if it wants to engage with its rival, it can do so from within its own territory, not from Bagram.”

To date, the US president has repeatedly criticized the way American forces and equipment were withdrawn from Afghanistan, but he has not offered a clear policy regarding Afghanistan.

Trump Criticizes US Withdrawal, Cites Strategic Loss of Bagram
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AfghanEvac: Ending Afghan TPS is a Betrayal of US promises

May 13, 2025
Khaama Press

AfghanEvac condemned the U.S. decision to end Temporary Protected Status for Afghans, calling it a betrayal of American promises.

 

Shawn VanDiver, President of AfghanEvac, has strongly criticized the U.S. government’s decision to end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan nationals. He described the move as a “betrayal” of those who risked their lives for the United States and trusted its promises.

 

In an official statement, VanDiver said, “This decision is not rooted in reality, but in politics. Afghanistan remains under Taliban control, with no functioning asylum system. Assassinations, arbitrary arrests, and widespread human rights abuses—especially against women and ethnic minorities—persist.”

He warned that the decision would not enhance U.S. security, but would instead tear families apart, destabilize lives, and erode America’s remaining moral credibility on the global stage.

VanDiver emphasized that AfghanEvac and many other advocacy groups are prepared to fight the decision through legal action, lobbying in Congress, and mobilizing public opinion. “We will do everything in our power to oppose this,” he stated.

 

This reaction follows the announcement by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, who said the TPS program for Afghans would officially end on July 12. The status had protected thousands of Afghans from deportation following the fall of Kabul in 2021.

 

Secretary Noem claimed the decision was made due to “improved security conditions” in Afghanistan. She also referenced ongoing investigations into alleged fraud and national security concerns involving some TPS holders.

The TPS designation was originally introduced under President Joe Biden’s administration as a humanitarian safeguard for Afghans fleeing political and security turmoil after the U.S. withdrawal.

Critics argue that conditions in Afghanistan remain unsafe, with the Taliban suppressing dissent, restricting women’s rights, and engaging in systematic persecution. Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have documented ongoing abuses.

 

As of now, more than 11,000 Afghans in the U.S. are under TPS. Advocacy groups are urging the Trump administration to reconsider the decision, warning that deporting vulnerable individuals to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan could have life-threatening consequences.

 

AfghanEvac: Ending Afghan TPS is a Betrayal of US promises
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Global Fund Delegation visits Afghanistan after 7 years

May 13, 2025
Khaama Press

A Global Fund delegation visited Afghanistan for the first time since 2018, reaffirming commitment to fight AIDS, TB, and malaria.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has announced that a delegation from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria visited Afghanistan for the first time since 2018. The visit marks a significant step toward reinvigorating global health collaborations in the country.

In a statement released on Monday, May 12, UNAMA highlighted that the delegation reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to supporting programs combating HIV/AIDS and malaria in Afghanistan. The Global Fund delegation also conducted a visit to medical supply warehouses to assess logistical and operational capacity.

The delegation praised the efforts and achievements of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in delivering essential health services under challenging conditions. They noted the importance of continued international cooperation in combating communicable diseases amid Afghanistan’s fragile healthcare landscape.

This high-level visit comes at a time when Afghanistan remains heavily burdened by diseases such as tuberculosis (TB). In March 2025, Taliban-appointed deputy minister for health services, Abdul Wali Haqqani, cited World Health Organization data indicating approximately 75,000 TB infections annually in Afghanistan.

Despite political and humanitarian challenges, the Global Fund remains one of the largest contributors to disease-specific aid in Afghanistan. It has invested over $500 million in health programs in the country since 2003, according to Global Fund records.

Health experts stress that sustained international support is crucial to preventing a resurgence of deadly diseases. Without continued funding, efforts to control malaria, TB, and HIV could be severely disrupted, putting millions at risk.

UNAMA has called on international partners to maintain and expand their support for Afghanistan’s health system, emphasizing that protecting public health is a shared global responsibility that transcends political change.

Global Fund Delegation visits Afghanistan after 7 years
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OCHA warns of urgent Aid Funding shortage in Afghanistan

May 13, 2025
Khaama Press

OCHA warns that a severe funding shortfall threatens humanitarian aid in Afghanistan, leaving millions without essential support and relief services.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has announced that due to a significant reduction in humanitarian funding, aid distribution in Afghanistan will now follow a stricter prioritization framework. Over 12 million people have been identified as the most urgently in need of support.

In a statement released on Tuesday, May 13, via its official X account, OCHA stated that $1.62 billion is required to meet the basic needs of 12.5 million people across Afghanistan. These individuals will be the primary recipients of humanitarian assistance in 2024.

Given the limited financial resources, OCHA has selected only 145 out of 401 vulnerable districts in Afghanistan as high-priority zones for aid delivery. This decision is part of the UN’s broader effort to manage scarce resources more effectively and focus on the most at-risk communities.

OCHA also noted that there remains uncertainty about the availability of necessary funding for Afghanistan’s humanitarian operations in 2025. This funding gap threatens to deepen the crisis if not addressed through international donor support.

In recent years, Afghanistan has faced overlapping crises, including economic collapse, natural disasters, and widespread displacement. According to UN estimates, nearly 23 million people in the country will require some form of humanitarian assistance in 2024 alone.

Experts warn that without sufficient international attention and aid, the humanitarian situation could deteriorate rapidly, particularly in underserved regions. The reduction in funding comes at a time when global crises are competing for donor attention, further complicating relief efforts in Afghanistan.

The United Nations has called on the global community to renew its commitment to Afghanistan, stressing that early intervention and sustained support are essential to prevent further human suffering and ensure stability in the region.

OCHA warns of urgent Aid Funding shortage in Afghanistan
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Afghan Returnees from Pakistan Demand Jobs, Education, and Support

May 13, 2025
Shabnam Amini
Tolo News
13 May 2025

They are urging the Islamic Emirate to provide opportunities for employment and education for themselves and their children.

Afghan migrants recently deported from Pakistan are facing a range of challenges upon their return to Afghanistan.

They are urging the Islamic Emirate to provide opportunities for employment and education for themselves and their children.

Ismatullah, one of the returnees who recently arrived at a camp in Kabul, shared his difficulties: “We ask the government to provide us with housing, jobs, and educational opportunities for our children now that we have returned. We have nothing—everything was left behind in Pakistan.”

Shafiullah, another returnee from Pakistan, said: “Educational opportunities should be provided for our children, and we should be given assistance. We were in a very difficult situation over there.”

On the other hand, the Ministries of Economy and Labor and Social Affairs have assured that efforts are underway to attract aid and provide employment opportunities for the returnees.

Abdul Rahman Habib, spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy, stated: “In cooperation with domestic and international organizations, we are mobilizing humanitarian aid for those affected by climate change, addressing the challenges of returnees from neighboring countries, building shelters, providing social services, and reconstructing public infrastructure in vulnerable areas.”

Samiullah Ebrahimi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, said: “In areas where Afghan returnees have recently arrived, a system has been activated to register their details, education, skills, and experience. This data will be used to create job opportunities for them in the future.”

Previously, the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing announced that it has prepared 60 residential townships across the country to support returning migrants.

Afghan Returnees from Pakistan Demand Jobs, Education, and Support
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