Afghan Christians in Danger of Deportation from America

Hundreds of Afghan Christians face deportation from the United States following an order to deport Afghan refugees.

According to reports published following the deportation order for Afghan refugees from the United States, approximately 9,000 Afghan refugees who legally reside in America have been placed at risk of deportation, among whom are hundreds of Christians who converted to Christianity in 2021 following America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan.

American religious leaders, in criticism of this order, warned about their deportation, stating: “The deportation of Afghan refugees, particularly Christians, will expose them to serious threats from the Taliban.” They requested that Donald Trump prevent the deportation of Christians, and also asked his deputy and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to provide a 90-day period to review their situation and explore possibilities for supporting them.

It should be noted that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on April 10 the termination of special humanitarian assistance to Afghans.

Not only Afghan Christians, but also many Iranian Christians who were recently transferred from America to Panama, remain at risk of deportation to Iran. Many human rights organizations have protested against the deportation of these citizens, stating that deporting asylum seekers from a country where they have filed for refugee status and who would face mortal danger upon return to their country of origin violates human rights law.

This order comes as many Christians in Iran are arrested, tortured, and persecuted by the Islamic Republic government, and often face severe prison sentences and hefty fines. Additionally, after their release, they are deprived of civil rights and must endure exile orders, and in some cases, their property is also confiscated.

In Afghanistan as well, Christians face mortal danger from the Taliban, who fearlessly kill them in the most brutal manner possible, regardless of whether they are women, men, or adolescents.