Christian Leaders Urge Protection for Afghan Refugees Facing Deportation
In a heartfelt appeal, over a dozen prominent Christian leaders have reached out to President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, expressing urgent concerns for Afghan Christian refugees who are at risk of deportation. This letter, released on Friday, emphasizes the dire situation faced by these individuals, who represent some of the most vulnerable religious minorities globally.
The letter commends the Trump administration for its commitment to international religious freedom, a principle that has become a cornerstone of American foreign policy. The signatories, led by Myal Greene of World Relief, implore the administration to extend protections to Afghan Christians, who are facing immense danger should they be forced to return to their homeland. Notable figures among the signatories include Brent Leatherwood from the Southern Baptist Convention, Ryan Brown of Open Doors US, and Tim Goeglein from Focus on the Family.
Afghanistan has become increasingly perilous for Christians, with the Taliban’s rule imposing severe penalties for conversion from Islam, including imprisonment and execution. The letter highlights alarming reports that Afghan Christians who arrived in the U.S. after the chaotic withdrawal of American troops in 2021 are now confronted with the frightening possibility of being sent back to a country where their faith could cost them their lives. One group of Afghan Christians reportedly received notice demanding they self-deport within a week, despite the lengthy asylum process that typically takes years.
The signatories argue that such demands effectively strip these individuals of their right to seek asylum, putting their lives in jeopardy. "Forcing them to return under these circumstances would not only be tragic but would also tarnish America’s record of defending persecuted Christians," they wrote. The letter calls for the U.S. to uphold its values by providing refuge to those whose lives are threatened due to their faith.
Last month, the Department of Homeland Security announced it would not renew the Temporary Protected Status for thousands of Afghans currently in the U.S., leading to fears of imminent deportations. This status was initially granted to those fleeing Afghanistan in 2022, and its termination could have devastating consequences for many.
Travis Weber from the Family Research Council emphasized the importance of maintaining pathways for persecuted Christians to receive refugee or asylum status. He urged the administration not to overlook the plight of these individuals amidst broader immigration reforms. "President Trump has rightly highlighted the issue of anti-Christian bias, which must be addressed within the U.S. refugee and asylum systems," he stated.
In response to reports of Afghan Christians facing deportation, Rev. Franklin Graham, head of Samaritan’s Purse, reassured that he was unaware of any deportations occurring thus far. He noted ongoing discussions among leaders, including Senator Lindsey Graham, to address the situation and ensure that Afghan Christians receive the support they need.
The urgency surrounding this matter has prompted members of the Church of the Apostles in Raleigh, North Carolina, to rally against the deportation orders affecting Afghan Christians. These refugees have endured harrowing experiences in their homeland, including torture for their faith. As one church member articulated, the process to enter the U.S. legally is rigorous, requiring thorough interviews to assess the credible fear of persecution.
The Christian community continues to advocate for the protection of Afghan Christians, urging the U.S. government to honor its commitment to religious freedom and support those who have risked everything for their faith. As discussions progress, the hope remains that these vulnerable individuals will find safety and refuge in a country that values liberty and justice for all.
For more information on how to support Afghan Christian refugees, visit World Relief or Open Doors USA.