US Begins Financial Incentives for Afghans in Al-Salhia Camp to Return Home Amid Criticism
Reuters has reported that the US Department of State has initiated payments to Afghans stranded at the Al-Salhia camp in Qatar as part of efforts to facilitate their return to Afghanistan, a move that has drawn criticism from several American lawmakers.
According to the report, over 1,100 Afghans have been held at this former US military base in Qatar since early last year. Their resettlement process was halted after the administration of President Donald Trump suspended the program accepting Afghans fearing for their safety due to their cooperation with US forces.
Reuters, citing informed sources, stated that about 150 individuals have so far accepted the offer of payment and repatriation. US officials have emphasized that the returns are voluntary, while talks with third countries for relocating these individuals continue.
Migrant rights activists have warned that among the camp’s residents are civilian refugees, women who collaborated with US forces during the two-decade-long war in Afghanistan, and family members of US military personnel; groups who, activists say, could face security risks upon returning to Afghanistan.
Meanwhile, several Democratic members of the US Congress have described the plan as a “betrayal of Afghan allies.” According to an official from a coalition supporting Afghan evacuations, each principal applicant is offered $4,500, with an additional $1,200 for each extra family member.
These developments occur amid reports that the Al-Salhia center may close at the end of March, raising ongoing concerns about the fate of Afghans still remaining at the camp.
