In August 2021, the world watched in disbelief as the Biden administration botched the military withdrawal from Afghanistan, ending a 20-year engagement and resulting in utter disaster.

Of course, the withdrawal disaster marked a lack of coordination and foresight, leaving thousands of Afghan allies and vulnerable citizens in a perilous situation.

Consequently, the Taliban's rapid takeover of Kabul and other key cities sent shockwaves across the globe, triggering a humanitarian crisis that continues to reverberate two years later. The scenes of desperation at the Kabul airport, where people clung to departing U.S. military planes, became emblematic of a botched exit strategy.

This article delves into the ongoing efforts to resettle Afghan refugees, many of whom risked their lives to support U.S. military operations. It explores the community support, government response, successes, challenges, and the path forward. But, at its core, it's a story that begins with the botched withdrawal that lead to a devastating crisis.

Two Years After the Disastrous Withdrawal

Lucky's halal market in Fort Worth, Texas, has become more than just a market; it's a community center for Afghan refugees who supported the U.S. military efforts during the war on terror. Community leaders gather to help others with immigration paperwork, translate documents, and listen to their neighbors' struggles.

Lucky, the callsign of a former translator for the U.S. military, has become a voice for many Afghans in his community.

U.S. Government's Weak Response

Last week, a Biden administration official visited Texas to listen to the concerns of the Afghan community. Lucky hoped that the meetings would yield positive results, though he was not expecting much after the way the withdrawal took place. "We are hoping to hear something back from them, or if they can at least expedite their process," Lucky said, highlighting the urgency of work authorization for many of the refugees, who are unwelcomein their own country because they stood against Islamic extremism.

Unfortunately, two years after the U.S. ended its longest war the efforts to resettle Afghans whose lives the Taliban's return to power threatened, continue. While the Biden administration considers its work a success, Afghans and refugee advocates strongly disagree.

Veteran-Led Support for Afghan's who Supported the U.S. Military

The veteran-led #AfghanEvac coalition has been a crucial partner in the resettlement efforts of those who supported the U.S. military in Afghanistan.

Shawn VanDiver, a Navy veteran and president of #AfghanEvac, has pressured the current administration to process more visas and increasthe e capacity at processing sites by 300%.

Fortunately, VanDiver has been able to make some headway in getting support for these refugees who were critical to military efforts against terrorist extremists.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the successes, challenges remain. The renewal process for temporary immigration status known as humanitarian parole has brought its challenges. Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, president and CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, describes the efforts as a mixed bag and emphasizes that more work must be done.

Of course, the Biden administration has assigned a low priority to this issue, and extreme pressure has been necessary to accomplish anything.

An Urgent Call for Accountability and Action

The story of Afghan resettlement is not merely a tale of resilience and community support; it's a stark reminder of the consequences of political decisions and the apparent lack of urgency that has characterized the Biden administration's response to this humanitarian crisis.

Two years after the chaotic withdrawal, thousands of Afghan allies and their families remain in limbo, facing uncertainty and hardship. Delays, confusion, and a failure to provide clear pathways to legal residency have marred the minimal efforts.

"We need our voice to be heard," resonates Lucky's plea, calling the administration to action to fulfill its moral obligation to those who stood with us.

The time for platitudes and promises is over. The Biden administration must act with the urgency and determination that this situation demands. The lives, dignity, and future of our Afghan allies depend on it.

Anything less is a betrayal of the values of honor, courage, and loyalty that we, as a nation, claim to uphold.

Let us know what you think in the comments below!