Eighty-three members of the US Congress have called for the suspension of plans to transfer Afghan refugees from the camp in Qatar to the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a joint letter from Democratic and Republican lawmakers, it was emphasized that such a step should not be taken until all legal and technical details are fully clarified.
The lawmakers requested clarification on the status of approximately 1,100 Afghan citizens who have been waiting for more than four years at the al-Siliya camp in Qatar. It was noted that these individuals are part of the group awaiting resettlement in the United States.
Objection to the relocation plan
The idea of relocating Afghan refugees to third countries has been on the agenda since last year. This is due to former President Donald Trump's suspension of the humanitarian visa process for people coming from Afghanistan and the subsequent ban on their entry into the US.
The US State Department has not shared a clear timeline for when the refugees will be sent to Congo. The letter called for this uncertainty to be resolved.
Rubio requests a two-week report
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated during a congressional session last week that Washington is in talks with countries willing to accept Afghans waiting at al-Siliya. However, Congress members demanded that all technical details, legal aspects, and possible living conditions in Congo be reported by June 24.
The group at the center of the plan includes former US military and institutional employees in Afghanistan and their families. These individuals were evacuated to Qatar during the withdrawal process following the collapse of the previous Republican administration and the Taliban's return to power.
The letter highlights that the uncertainty surrounding the future of Afghan refugees has reignited debate in US politics. Lawmakers are seeking clear answers regarding both the legal basis and humanitarian consequences of the transition process.
