How were Afghan evacuees vetted under Biden?
In a recent investigation, BBC Verify delves into the troubling claims surrounding the Afghan national suspected of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. This incident has raised significant concerns about the vetting process for Afghan refugees and individuals who entered the United States following the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in August 2021. The individual in question, identified as 38-year-old Abdul Wasi Safi, reportedly arrived in the U.S. under a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program designed to aid Afghans who supported American efforts during the two-decade-long conflict. However, allegations have surfaced suggesting that he may have entered the country without undergoing the thorough vetting typically required for such visas.
The shooting, which occurred on March 9, 2023, left two members of the National Guard injured and has prompted a reevaluation of the security protocols in place for Afghan refugees. Critics have pointed to the rapid evacuation process, which involved the resettlement of over 76,000 Afghans in the U.S. in a short period, as a potential factor in lapses in background checks. Reports indicate that Safi’s background may not have been fully scrutinized, raising alarms about the potential risks associated with expedited immigration processes during crises. The Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security have since stated that they are reviewing their procedures to ensure that all individuals entering the country are thoroughly vetted, emphasizing the importance of national security amidst humanitarian efforts.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in balancing national security with the moral imperative to assist those who aided U.S. forces in Afghanistan. As the investigation unfolds, it highlights the need for robust and effective vetting processes that can prevent potential threats while still providing refuge to those in need. The ongoing scrutiny of Safi’s case is likely to reignite debates over immigration policies and the responsibilities of the U.S. government in ensuring the safety of its citizens while honoring commitments made to vulnerable populations abroad. As policymakers grapple with these challenges, the case underscores the critical importance of maintaining a secure and compassionate immigration system.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJqaSCiqQIk
BBC Verify looks into claims that the Afghan national suspected of shooting two National Guard members in Washington DC entered the US unvetted.
