Washington D.C. [US], June 12 (ANI): Afghan nationals holding Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) have been officially exempted from the recent U.S. travel ban, reaffirming Washington’s commitment to those who aided American missions during its 20-year presence in Afghanistan, Khaama Press reported, citing a U.S. State Department confirmation.
The clarification was delivered during a press briefing on June 10 by State Department spokesperson Timmy Bruce, who stated that SIV processing will continue uninterrupted at all U.S. embassies and consulates globally. This exemption comes as a relief to thousands of Afghan applicants, many of whom have been waiting months—or even years—for relocation under the program.
The travel ban, implemented via executive order by President Donald Trump, affects citizens from 12 countries, including Afghanistan. However, the specific exemption for Afghan SIV holders signals a policy distinction aimed at supporting individuals who directly assisted U.S. diplomatic and military efforts, such as interpreters, embassy staff, and defense contractors.
When questioned about the rising ISIS activity in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, Bruce declined to provide further comment, stating there were no specific updates at that time. The inquiry followed recent Taliban claims that two alleged ISIS fighters were killed in Kabul, an indication of ongoing security challenges within the country.
The Afghan SIV program was established to safeguard U.S.-affiliated Afghans at risk of retaliation after the American withdrawal in 2021. Despite administrative delays and processing backlogs, human rights organizations have welcomed the U.S. government’s reaffirmation of support, calling it a critical step in upholding international obligations.
Advocacy groups and regional analysts stress that with instability continuing in Afghanistan and threats from extremist groups on the rise, maintaining open and functional resettlement channels for vulnerable Afghans remains not just a humanitarian necessity, but a reflection of American values.
The State Department’s move serves as a signal that Afghan allies will not be forgotten, even as Washington recalibrates its engagement in the broader region. (ANI)
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