Tom West, the U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan, has transitioned to a new role as Acting Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the State Department, according to a statement from Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
West, appointed to the Afghanistan role in October 2021, played a pivotal part in shaping U.S. policy during a challenging period following the Taliban’s return to power, Blinken said. He commended West for balancing U.S. national interests with the humanitarian needs of the Afghan people.
During West’s tenure, the U.S., in collaboration with international partners, led significant humanitarian efforts that prevented a wider famine and addressed the urgent needs of millions of Afghans.
“Tom has skillfully led diplomacy on Afghanistan during a complex period,” Blinken noted, adding that West also focused on counterterrorism, the release of detained American citizens, and the relocation of vulnerable Afghans.
As West steps into his new role, U.S. policy on Afghanistan will now be overseen by Chief of Mission Karen Decker, who will lead diplomatic efforts from Doha, Blinken said.
“The U.S. commitment to Afghanistan remains an enduring priority and will be led within the State Department by Chief of Mission of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan Karen Decker, Special Envoy Amiri, and Ambassador John Mark Pommersheim. Chief of Mission Decker will lead diplomacy on Afghanistan from Doha,” he said.
He added: “Special Envoy Amiri will continue to lead diplomatic and policy efforts toward ensuring that human rights, and particularly women’s rights, are prioritized. In Washington, Ambassador Pommersheim, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asia, will lead policy development and inter-agency coordination on Afghanistan.”
Blinken underscored Amiri’s dedication to advocating for Afghan women and girls, while Pommersheim, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asia, will lead policy development and inter-agency coordination from Washington.
The Secretary expressed confidence in the new leadership team, saying they will continue to safeguard U.S. interests and uphold its values in Afghanistan.
In his new position, West will focus on coordinating U.S. economic sanctions strategies across the government and with international partners, he said.
