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This is an archive article published on June 4, 2025
100 Democrats urge Trump officials to restore deportation relief for Afghans in the US
DHS announced in May that it would terminate TPS for Afghans by July 14, arguing that conditions had improved and continued presence was against national interests.
Nearly 76,000 Afghans who worked with American soldiers since 2001 as translators, interpreters and partners arrived in the U.S. on military planes after the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. (File photo)
A group of 100 Democratic lawmakers has urged the Trump administration to reverse its decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghans in the US, warning it would endanger thousands of lives by sending them back to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
In a letter addressed to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the lawmakers wrote, “The grave conditions that forced Afghan nationals to flee and seek refuge in the US following the return of the Taliban to power remain.” They added, “Forcing Afghan nationals in the US to return to Afghanistan would be reckless and inhumane, and would threaten the safety and well-being of thousands of individuals and families, especially women and girls.”
Led by Senator Chris Van Hollen, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Representative Glenn Ivey, the lawmakers urged the administration to reinstate TPS protections.
TPS provides temporary deportation relief and work authorisation for immigrants from countries experiencing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary conditions that prevent safe return.
DHS announced in May that it would terminate TPS for Afghans by July 14, arguing that conditions had improved and continued presence was against national interests.
Roughly 11,700 Afghans are currently enrolled in TPS, though about 3,600 have secured green cards.
The Trump administration has already ended TPS protections for some 350,000 Venezuelans and moved to end the program for thousands of Cameroonians, raising broader concerns about the future of TPS protections for vulnerable immigrant groups.
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