In a new act by Secretary Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security will terminate the Temporary Protected Status for Afghanistan, claiming improved conditions in the region, raising concerns over deportations for more than 9,000 Afghans residing in the U.S.
See the tweet below!
The decision, announced by Noem, aligns with the administration’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the immigration system.
The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Afghanistan is set to expire on May 20, 2025, with its termination effective July 12, 2025.
The decision stems from a thorough review of Afghanistan’s current situation, as it no longer meets the criteria for TPS.
The review process involved evaluations from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and input from the Department of State.
The improvements cited include Afghanistan’s security situation and stabilizing economy, which government officials believe do not pose a threat to returning nationals.
Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized, “Afghanistan has had an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent them from returning to their home country.”
However, the decision sparks concerns among refugee rights groups and nonprofits about the future of Afghans in the U.S., given the UN’s reports of ongoing Taliban decrees against women.
The termination of TPS is part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration, illustrating a decisive strategy to reclaim control of the nation’s immigration protocols.
Secretary Kristi Noem also stated, “This administration is returning TPS to its original temporary intent,” underscoring efforts to address system integrity.
The conversation around TPS has evolved since its initial establishment for Afghans due to armed conflict and instability after the U.S. military withdrawal and Taliban’s return to power.
The Phase-out of TPS evolves as part of immigration policies previously considered by the Trump administration, particularly regarding policies to exempt groups at risk, such as Christians, from deportation.
Despite the administration’s claims, Secretary Noem acknowledged concerns over fraud and national security threats among some TPS beneficiaries.
“Reviewing TPS designations is a key part of restoring integrity in our immigration system,” Secretary Noem commented.
The emphasis on national security and public safety aligns with broader policy goals, including recent efforts to conclude TPS for Venezuelans, highlighting a comprehensive approach to scrutinizing and recalibrating the TPS system for national interest.
It's now official: @DHSgov is terminating Temporary Protected Status for Afghans, claiming that "Afghanistan has had an improved security situation"@WorldRelief responded when DHS first confirmed this to media weeks ago https://t.co/fowwL3ZYFM https://t.co/NMWTyq0WDd pic.twitter.com/ykzHd12jtP
— Matthew Soerens (@MatthewSoerens) May 12, 2025
