100 Democrats urge Trump officials to restore deportation relief for Afghans in US

WASHINGTON: A group of 101 Democratic lawmakers is urging top Trump administration officials to restore deportation protections for thousands of Afghans in the US, warning they would be sent back to “devastating humanitarian and economic conditions” in Afghanistan.

In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the lawmakers called on the administration to restore access to the Temporary Protected Status program for Afghans, saying women and children could face particular harm under the Taliban-led government in place since 2021. “The grave conditions that forced Afghan nationals to flee and seek refuge in the US following the return of the Taliban to power remain,” the lawmakers said.

“Because of this harsh reality, forcing Afghan nationals in the US to return to Afghanistan would be reckless and inhumane, and would threaten the safety and well-being of thousands of individuals and families, especially women and girls.” The effort is being led by US Senator Chris Van Hollen, Representative Glenn Ivey and Senator Amy Klobuchar. TPS provides deportation relief and work permits to people already in the US if their home countries experience a natural disaster, armed conflict or other extraordinary event.