U.S. revokes key protections for Afghans amid Taliban threats

In April 2025, the Department of Homeland Security sent emails instructing thousands of Afghans living in the United States to leave the country. Recipients of this message included individuals who had fled from Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover. One such individual, known only as Z., a nurse's assistant, had received humanitarian parole and Temporary Protected Status upon arriving in the U.S. in 2023, which allowed her to remain and work legally. The recent communication from DHS sparked fear among Afghans living in the U.S. who believed returning to Afghanistan could threaten their lives due to ongoing Taliban violence and instability. The email Z. received wasn't an official deportation order but served as a strong warning to many humanitarian parole recipients regarding their immigration status. The situation has become more dire as reports conflict with governmental claims that conditions in Afghanistan have improved. Many Afghans argue that reality is quite the opposite, with the Taliban's threat increasing, particularly for those who supported U.S. efforts during its involvement in the country. Z. described a harrowing experience during which Taliban members appeared at her family home while she narrowly escaped capture. The revoking of protections, such as humanitarian parole and Temporary Protected Status, in addition to new travel restrictions indicate a much harsher immigration policy targeting Afghans in the U.S., disallowing the arrival of more displaced individuals facing persecution. Many Afghans express profound concern for their families still living in Afghanistan, where the Taliban has perpetuated violence against women and children. One Afghan father articulated the danger his daughters face, pleading for support from American citizens to recognize the ongoing struggles in Afghanistan. As these changes take effect, the Afghan community remains on high alert, grappling with the fear of deportation and uncertain futures in a country that feels like home for many but now seems increasingly perilous amid shifting immigration policies.