Afghan army veteran,
Barkatullah, an Afghan army veteran, fled to Iran after the Taliban killed his father and two brothers, but now faces deportation and xenophobia, prompting his plea for US help.
(The Post News)- Barkatullah, an Afghan army veteran, is desperate for a new start in the United States after fleeing Taliban persecution. His father, an army medical doctor, and two brothers were killed after the Afghan government collapsed. Seeking refuge in Iran, Barkatullah has instead faced harsh xenophobia and deportation threats. “Here in Iran, there are many bad people. They treat immigrants very badly. Even when you work, they don’t give you money,” he said.
The Taliban’s victory in 2021 has made life treacherous for former Afghan soldiers like Barkatullah, who are targeted for their alliance with the United States and NATO. In Iran, Barkatullah has experienced firsthand the dangers of being a refugee. “I can be deported,” he said, recalling how Iranian police beat and deported his friend just three days ago.
Barkatullah’s story is not unique. Many Afghan refugees in Iran face similar challenges, including persecution and xenophobia. “Here Iranians know that 90% of Afghan government military refugees are treated badly because they are allied with NATO and the United States,” Barkatullah said.
Despite the risks, Barkatullah is determined to continue his military career in the United States. He has reached out to the US government via email but has received no response. “I need help,” he said, his plea echoing the desperation of many Afghan refugees seeking safety and stability.
The US has a history of providing refuge to those fleeing persecution and war. In 2021, the US evacuated over 76,000 Afghans, including former soldiers and their families, after the Taliban took control of Kabul. However, many of these refugees, like Barkatullah, still face uncertain futures and ongoing challenges in their host countries.
As Barkatullah waits for a response from the US government, his life remains in limbo. Will he be deported back to Afghanistan, where the Taliban awaits? Or will he find safety and a new start in the United States?
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