Why did they feel betrayed by the U. S. exit?
In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, thousands of Afghans chose to assist U. S. forces during the two-decade war that followed. Many served as interpreters, guides, and local partners, believing their cooperation would lead to a safer Afghanistan and personal security. Now, years after the U. S. withdrawal in 2021, some express deep regret, saying they were abandoned despite their sacrifices.
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Israel and Lebanon to Hold Security Talks in Rome This OctoberTheir decisions were made amid hope and fear. After 9/11, the U. S. invaded Afghanistan to dismantle al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power. Over the next 20 years, Afghan civilians worked closely with American troops, often risking their lives and those of their families. They provided critical intelligence, facilitated operations, and helped bridge cultural divides. Many were promised visas or resettlement support in return for their service, especially through Special Immigrant Visa programs.
As the Taliban rapidly regained control in August 2021, the U. S. evacuation effort became chaotic. Thousands of Afghans who had worked with Americans were left behind despite eligibility for evacuation. Some described frantic attempts to reach Kabul airport, only to be turned away or caught in crowds. Others reported receiving no response to visa applications after years of waiting. The sense of abandonment was compounded by threats from the Taliban, who viewed collaboration with foreigners as treason.
One former interpreter, who asked not to be named, said he helped U. S. units for eight years before fleeing to Pakistan after the withdrawal. „I believed in the mission,” he stated. „I thought we were building something better. Now I see it was all temporary. I’ll never trust them again.” Similar sentiments echo among others who remain in hiding or live in limbo in third countries, unable to reunite with family or secure stable livelihoods.
What are the long-term consequences of broken trust?
The fallout extends beyond individual disappointment. Veterans’ advocates warn that the perception of broken promises may deter future local cooperation in conflict zones. Human rights groups note that many Afghans who assisted the U. S. now face persecution, with some detained or disappeared by the Taliban. Resettlement programs have processed only a fraction of eligible applicants, leaving tens of thousands in uncertain situations.
Looking ahead, the legacy of this erosion of trust complicates U. S. efforts to engage with partner nations. Rebuilding credibility will require consistent action, not just words. For those who took the risk, the emotional toll remains heavy, shaped by broken expectations and the quiet realization that their loyalty was not met with lasting commitment. Frequently Asked Questions What is a Special Immigrant Visa and who qualifies for it? The Special Immigrant Visa program allows Afghans who worked for or on behalf of the U. S. government in Afghanistan to apply for resettlement in the United States. Eligibility typically requires at least one year of service and a credible threat due to that work.
How many Afghans who helped the U. S. have been evacuated since 2021? According to U. S. government data, over 100,000 Afghans were evacuated during the 2021 airlift and subsequent operations. However, advocacy groups estimate that tens of thousands of eligible individuals remain in Afghanistan or neighboring countries awaiting processing.
Can Afghans who assisted the U. S. still apply for protection or resettlement? Yes, applications for Special Immigrant Visas and refugee processing remain open, though backlogs and security checks cause significant delays. Some may also qualify for other humanitarian programs depending on their circumstances.
