Newt Gingrich Calls for Special Support for Afghan Allies in the U.S.
Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) in an interview with CBS on Sunday, January 12, stated that Afghans who fought alongside Americans should receive “an unusual level of support and treatment.”
“I think the Afghan refugees who actively fought on the side of Americans and saved American lives deserve an unusual level of support and treatment,” Gingrich added.
Previously, other American officials had also emphasized the importance of efforts to evacuate Afghans who worked with the U.S. and its allies.
Gingrich, the former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, reaffirmed that Afghan refugees who fought alongside American forces and risked their lives deserve special support. He emphasized that the U.S. must not abandon its allies in difficult circumstances.
In a television interview with CBS, Gingrich highlighted that Afghan refugees who saved American lives and opposed the Taliban merit an exceptional level of care and assistance.
During the “Face the Nation” program, Gingrich spoke about his efforts during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, working with various individuals to help evacuate America’s allies from the country.
He stated, “When someone is fully allied with you and risks their life alongside you, you cannot abandon them. This is a fundamental principle.”
The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 resulted in the deaths of at least 13 American soldiers and the collapse of the Afghan government.
More than three years after the withdrawal, many former U.S. collaborators remain outside the U.S., waiting in other countries for a chance to start a new life.
Recently, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the renewal of agreements to transfer Afghan allies to the U.S., signaling continued efforts to fulfill America’s commitments to its partners.
Despite the relocation of 183,000 Afghan citizens, including local allies, over the past three years, many are still waiting for resettlement. Addressing their needs promptly is critical to upholding U.S. values and global credibility.
