Ahmadullah Karimi, a former U.S. military interpreter, was stranded in Pakistan with his family after the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in August 2021. With the help of his former boss and friend, retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Will Selber, he was finally able to secure a special immigrant visa to come to the U.S. However, there were still risks involved, as he could be detained or deported if the Pakistani authorities intervened.
After a long and difficult journey, Karimi and his family arrived in the U.S., settling in Vermont. Despite finding a sense of freedom and rights in their new home, Karimi still worries about his family back in Afghanistan, who are living in fear of the Taliban. He is eager to help them relocate to safety in the U.S., but the process for extended family members is challenging.
Karimi’s story is just one of many of Afghan allies who have been left behind or faced obstacles in their journey to safety. While progress has been made in resettling vulnerable Afghans, there are still significant barriers and backlogs for those seeking refuge. Advocates are urging Congress to pass the Afghan Adjustment Act to expedite the resettlement process and provide a path to permanent residency for those in temporary status.
Despite the challenges and heartbreak caused by the ending of the war in Afghanistan, efforts by individuals like Selber and organizations are helping to bring hope and safety to Afghan allies in need. Karimi’s successful relocation and the support he received highlight the importance of continuing to assist vulnerable Afghans and fulfill the moral obligation to protect those who risked their lives to support U.S. forces.
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