How were Afghan evacuees vetted under Biden?

Unraveling the Afghan Evacuee Vetting Debate: In-depth Look at Controversies and Protocols

The tragic shooting of two National Guard members in Washington DC has reignited debates over the vetting of Afghan evacuees under President Biden's administration. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was part of Operation Allies Welcome, a program intended to shield vulnerable Afghans from Taliban reprisals. Yet, questions remain about the vetting's efficacy.

The Breaking Point

Tensions have mounted following the attack, leading former President Trump and others to criticize the vetting process for Afghan evacuees. Critics claim thousands entered the U.S. without thorough checks, spotlighting a significant security lapse. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security has halted Afghan immigration claims pending a protocol review.

Beneath the Surface

Operation Allies Welcome, launched in 2021, was meant to safeguard Afghans who supported U.S. forces. Proponents argue that despite chaos during the evacuation, a "multi-layered" vetting system was in place, involving agencies like the FBI for biometric checks. Yet, audits have uncovered inconsistencies and incomplete data management within the system.

The Ripple Effect

Amid intense scrutiny, advocates stress this incident does not reflect the wider Afghan evacuee community, highlighting that many have resettled successfully without incidents. Experts warn against broad generalizations, emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of resettlement efforts. However, political pressure may lead to stricter immigration policies moving forward.