Story perspectives

Afghan Veterans Face Crisis Amid Immigration Delays

12/11/2025

48 6

Summary

Story summary

Many Afghan fighters who served in CIA-led "Zero Units" feel abandoned after evacuation to the United States, facing mental health struggles and immigration challenges.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan veteran charged with killing a National Guard soldier, exemplifies the crisis’s consequences.
Former CIA agent Geeta Bakshi notes rising self-harm rates among these veterans, linked to immigration delays.
CIA Director John Ratcliffe criticized the vetting process, though veterans say they underwent extensive scrutiny.

1 of 1

Story summary

Many Afghan fighters who served in CIA-led "Zero Units" feel abandoned after evacuation to the United States, facing mental health struggles and immigration challenges.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan veteran charged with killing a National Guard soldier, exemplifies the crisis’s consequences.
Former CIA agent Geeta Bakshi notes rising self-harm rates among these veterans, linked to immigration delays.
CIA Director John Ratcliffe criticized the vetting process, though veterans say they underwent extensive scrutiny.