Over 1,100 Afghan Ex-US Allies in Qatar Face Camp Closure, Potential Return to Taliban-Ruled Afghanistan

NBC News reports that more than 1,100 Afghans who worked with U.S. forces during the 20-year war, including special forces members, interpreters and their families, face the closure of the U.S.-managed Al Seeliya camp near Doha, Qatar, by the end of March.

Many residents have been approved for resettlement in the United States. They must choose between transfer to an unspecified third country or return to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, where they fear persecution.

U.S. officials offer financial incentives of $1,000 to $4,500 for voluntary repatriation. A State Department spokesperson said there are no forced returns, indefinite stays in the camp are not appropriate and transfers to third countries are positive for security reasons. A U.S. official told Congress that some residents have voluntarily accepted the financial offers.

Shawn Vandiver, head of a San Diego-based organization supporting the Afghans, described the camp conditions as prison-like, with residents confined to windowless shipping containers and unable to leave.

Mohammad, a former interpreter for the U.S., said he feels betrayed by the situation, adding that his family has been targeted in Afghanistan.

Thousands of other Afghan refugees in Pakistan and Qatar also await resolution of their cases.