U.S. Democratic Lawmakers Warn Against Collective Punishment of Afghan Migrants

More than 60 Democratic members of the U.S. Congress have warned in an official letter to the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security that the U.S. government has unfairly and collectively targeted Afghan migrants following the recent shooting in Washington, D.C.

The letter, signed by over 60 Democratic lawmakers and addressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristie Noem, emphasizes that the government’s response to the security incident has resulted in the suspension and revocation of legal immigration statuses for Afghan citizens, halted visa processes, and increased administrative pressures on Afghan refugees.

The signatories stressed that collectively punishing an entire migrant community for the actions of an individual violates principles of justice, law, and the foundational values of the United States.

They added that many of the Afghan migrants now under pressure are former U.S. collaborators, legal residents, and individuals who sought refuge in the U.S. after the fall of Afghanistan’s previous government.

The Democratic lawmakers also warned that such policies not only foster discrimination and distrust but also undermine U.S. national security, as communities feeling targeted and treated unjustly are less likely to cooperate with official institutions.

Finally, the letter urges the U.S. government to restore normal immigration processes for Afghan citizens, prevent discriminatory practices, and uphold its humanitarian and legal obligations toward Afghan refugees.