Congress must act to protect Afghan allies from removal

In the wake of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, many Afghan allies who assisted American forces faced dire consequences. These individuals, including translators and drivers, became targets for the Taliban and other hostile groups. The U.S. government evacuated approximately 70,000 Afghans under humanitarian parole, which allowed them temporary legal presence but did not provide a pathway to permanent residency. As of August 2026, the temporary protected status for these evacuees is ending, and the Afghan Adjustment Act has stalled, leaving many in uncertainty. The Refugee Admissions Program has been effectively closed for most Afghans, with limited pathways for those still in Afghanistan or in refugee camps. In response to this crisis, the Afghanistan TPS Act of 2026 has been proposed in Congress, aiming to secure temporary protected status for Afghan evacuees and prevent their removal from the U.S. This act has garnered bipartisan support and is backed by various organizations, including churches and veterans' groups. The urgency of the situation has been recognized, but political will has waned, risking the safety of those who supported U.S. efforts in Afghanistan. The obligation to fulfill promises made to these allies is critical, not only for their safety but also for maintaining trust with potential allies in future conflicts.