After years of intense combat in Afghanistan, many Afghan fighters who served with the CIA found themselves feeling abandoned. Their heroic efforts against the Taliban earned them little in the way of support once they were evacuated to the U.S.
One such fighter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was recently charged with shooting two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C. This incident has highlighted the struggles faced by these veterans adjusting to life in America.
Davud, a former combat translator and member of a CIA-led unit, shared how many soldiers ended up in despair after arriving in the U.S. Despite risking their lives, they felt neglected by the very agency they served. “It’s like you did something that nobody appreciates,” he said. “The promise made was a fake promise.”
The mental health crisis among these veterans is alarming. Reports indicate a rising number of suicides and self-harm incidents among former Afghan soldiers, prompting concern within support organizations. Geeta Bakshi, a former CIA agent now working on refugee resettlement, stated that many have been struggling with severe depression due to prolonged immigration delays.
In fact, a survey from a refugee support group revealed a 40% increase in cases where Afghan veterans reported suicidal thoughts in 2023. This highlights a pressing need for mental health services and immigration support.
When the Taliban regained control in 2021, the urgency to evacuate these soldiers was high. Yet, many faced bureaucratic obstacles once in the U.S., complicating their paths to asylum and employment. For Lakanwal, it took nearly four years to finally achieve asylum status.
Davud recalls instances where friends felt hopeless due to their unstable immigration status. “We had worse cases of emotional distress,” he said, emphasizing the importance of community support in overcoming these struggles.
As this crisis unfolds, it highlights a broader issue — the responsibility of governments to care for their veterans, especially those who put their lives on the line. It serves as a grim reminder of the sacrifices made and the challenges faced by those seeking a new life in an unfamiliar land.
The need for better systems to aid these veterans cannot be overstated. Their bravery deserves recognition, and their well-being must be prioritized to prevent further tragedies. We owe them our gratitude, and more importantly, our support in these difficult times.
For those in crisis, resources are available. If you need help, reach out to mental health services or hotlines in your area.
