WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Hundreds of Afghans who supported the U.S. war effort face an uncertain future as the U.S. government weighs plans to relocate them from Qatar to other countries, including Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Advocates warn that such a move could put lives at risk and undermine long-standing U.S. commitments to its wartime allies.

More than 1,000 Afghans remain at Camp As Sayliyah in Qatar. Many worked as interpreters or in support roles during the 20-year U.S. war in Afghanistan. They fled their home country after the Taliban regained control in 2021. Now, these individuals and their families may be sent to third countries, while some could be returned to Afghanistan. The proposal follows the suspension of the Afghan resettlement program more than a year ago. That program aimed to protect Afghans who faced threats due to their ties to the U.S. military. 

Advocates strongly oppose sending Afghan allies back to Afghanistan. They say many would face retaliation from the Taliban. Women who served in the military and others who worked closely with U.S. forces could face severe punishment. There are also concerns about sending refugees to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The country is dealing with its own humanitarian crisis. Critics argue that relocating Afghans to another unstable region only shifts the problem rather than solving it.

Shawn VanDiver, a Navy veteran and head of AfghanEvac, recently briefed members of Congress on the situation. He said lawmakers from both parties expressed surprise and concern.

“They were shocked,” VanDiver said. “These are people who stood with the United States and believed in its promises.”

He noted that about 42% of those in the Qatar camp are children. The group also includes more than 150 family members of active-duty U.S. service members. Lawmakers have shown interest in new legislation. Such measures could help speed up the resettlement process and provide protection for Afghan allies.

U.S. officials have raised concerns about vetting. They say some individuals in the resettlement pipeline may not have undergone thorough background checks. VanDiver disputed those claims. He said the vetting process remained strict and even expanded in recent years. He noted that officials used advanced tools, including artificial intelligence, to screen applicants. He also said applicants completed medical checks and security reviews before leaving Afghanistan and again in transit countries like Qatar, Germany, and the Philippines.

“This was one of the most secure immigration pathways in history,” he said.

Advocates warn that the situation could damage U.S. credibility worldwide. They say future partners may hesitate to support American missions if they doubt long-term commitments. VanDiver called the issue a test of national values.

“The message matters,” he said. “People need to know that promises will be kept.”

The future of these Afghan allies remains unclear. Lawmakers are exploring policy options, and advocacy groups continue to raise awareness.