Afghans again being flown to US base in Germany before resettlement
For the first time since 2021, Afghan nationals are being brought to the largest overseas American military community in Kaiserslautern, Germany, where they will wait for the necessary documents to move to the United States. This effort is part of a renewed push by the State Department to resettle the thousands of Afghans who worked for the US government and their families, but have yet to receive special immigrant visas (SIVs).
According to a representative from the US Consulate General in Frankfurt, the State Department aims to process these visa applications in less than 30 days. The first flight from Kabul arrived in Germany earlier this month.
In the wake of the fall of the US-backed Afghan government in August 2021, over 34,000 refugees were flown to Germany and temporarily housed at Ramstein Air Base and Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Rheinland-Pfalz before continuing their resettlement journey to the United States. This operation, known as Operation Allies Refuge, marked the largest humanitarian evacuation in US history, relocating more than 120,000 people from Afghanistan.
Compared to last year, the number of Afghans arriving in Germany is significantly smaller, though specific figures and details regarding their accommodations have not been disclosed.
The visas will only be granted to individuals and their families who meet all the requirements for resettlement and have provided faithful and valuable service to the United States government, according to the US consulate representative. It is crucial for prospective immigrants to obtain their visas prior to their arrival in the US, especially since the US diplomatic presence in Afghanistan ceased following the Taliban takeover. Therefore, Afghan visa applicants must first travel to a third country.
By utilizing a US military base in Germany, the processing of these visas can be done on a larger scale and in a controlled environment. Resettlement efforts have been ongoing since 2021, with special immigrant visas being processed at 60 posts worldwide. However, applicants were previously responsible for making their way to these posts themselves.
During the last fiscal year, the US Consulate in Frankfurt issued over 18,000 special immigrant visas to Afghan applicants, the highest number in a single year.
This new development signifies a critical step in the ongoing efforts to support Afghan allies and their families. The US government, along with partner nations, continues to work diligently to provide safe and efficient resettlement options for those who played pivotal roles in assisting US operations in Afghanistan.
The arrival of Afghan nationals in Germany and their subsequent relocation to the United States demonstrates the continued commitment to upholding the valued relationships forged amid challenging circumstances. Through these efforts, the US aims to acknowledge and honor the contributions made by Afghan allies, providing them with new opportunities and a fresh start as they embark on a new chapter of their lives.
As the resettlement process continues, it is crucial to ensure that eligible individuals receive the necessary support and resources to facilitate a smooth transition into their new lives in the United States. The commitment to these Afghan partners further reflects the ongoing humanitarian efforts dedicated to safeguarding and assisting vulnerable populations affected by the recent events in Afghanistan.
The United States remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Afghan people and fostering an inclusive society that embraces the contributions and experiences of diverse communities. As the world continues to evolve, these efforts symbolize the enduring bonds and shared values between nations seeking to create a brighter future for all.
