An executive order by Trump halts Afghan refugee resettlement flights

President Donald Trump’s executive order suspending the US Refugee Admissions Program leaves tens of thousands of Afghans, including family members of US service members and those who helped US forces and agencies, in limbo and fear of persecution under the Taliban.

More than 1,600 Afghan refugees had already been approved to resettle in the US.

Thousands, including women and minorities, remain at risk. Resettlement organizations say flights, including those for refugee minors, have been canceled.

Several Afghanis had hoped to resettle in the United States after the US military’s chaotic withdrawal in 2021, which allowed the Taliban to seize control of Afghanistan.

AfghanEvac estimates 40,000–60,000 Afghans are actively seeking resettlement, with 1,700 expected to leave Afghanistan soon.

Advocates warn that Trump’s decision undermines US commitments to its Afghan allies. Pakistan, already deporting Afghans, seeks clarity from Washington.

The suspension will be reviewed in 90 days, though exceptions may apply in limited cases.