Staff Reports
The Biden administration is facing criticism for its handling of Afghan evacuees coming into the United States after the military withdrawal from Afghanistan. A government watchdog report released recently highlighted concerns about the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) procedures for vetting and monitoring the tens of thousands of Afghan nationals who entered the country.
The report described the process as fragmented, with issues in identifying Afghans with derogatory information or negative backgrounds. There was also a lack of established procedures for monitoring the parole expiration of individual Afghan parolees. This led to a low number of deportations of Afghan parolees with concerning backgrounds, despite tens of thousands being admitted into the U.S.
Daily Caller: Biden Admin Failing To Properly Monitor Afghan Evacuees In US, Watchdog Finds https://t.co/TZAGIpWKsa
— Ian Hansen ???? (@IanHansenFeed) May 30, 2024
Operation Allies Welcome (OAW), the program responsible for paroling Afghan nationals, was the focus of the report. It revealed gaps in coordination among DHS agencies, leading to a lack of monitoring for Afghan nationals whose parole had expired, leaving them living unlawfully and largely unmonitored in the U.S.
The report pointed out that DHS had not designated a component to monitor parole expiration for individual Afghan parolees, and CBP, USCIS, and ICE officials believed it was not their responsibility. The government has agreed with the recommendations made in the report but does not plan to implement necessary changes until July 2025.
Conservative viewpoints may argue that the Biden administration’s failure to properly monitor and vet Afghan evacuees poses a national security risk. The lack of coordination and oversight within DHS agencies could potentially allow individuals with criminal backgrounds or security concerns to remain in the country unchecked. It is essential for the government to prioritize the safety and security of American communities by ensuring thorough vetting processes and effective monitoring of individuals granted parole.
