KABUL — Taliban on Tuesday welcomed the United States’ recent decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for certain Afghan nationals and called for direct talks with Washington on managing the return of Afghan migrants.
In a statement, the Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the U.S. move as a “positive step” and claimed it reflects international recognition of what they called “security and economic progress” under their rule.
“This is a clear acknowledgment of the current achievements in security, economy, and other areas,” the statement read, referring to remarks by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which announced Monday that TPS for Afghans who entered the United States after the fall of the previous government will expire on July 12.
The Taliban said they are prepared to engage in bilateral discussions with the United States and other countries to establish mechanisms for the dignified and orderly return of Afghan nationals who no longer qualify for legal residency abroad. The group also expressed readiness to provide consular services to returning citizens.
“These discussions should aim to prevent possible complications, address security concerns, and ensure the dignity and rights of returnees,” the statement added.
The TPS program for Afghans was initiated under President Joe Biden’s administration to protect those who fled Afghanistan amid the 2021 collapse of the Western-backed government and the Taliban’s return to power.
In announcing the program’s termination, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem cited what she described as “improved security conditions” in Afghanistan. She also said the decision followed internal reviews of potential security threats and suspected fraud among some TPS beneficiaries, asserting that the move serves the United States’ national interest.
The Taliban’s praise for the decision comes amid growing concerns from Afghan advocacy groups and rights organizations who argue that returning Afghans, especially women, journalists, and former government employees, face significant risks under Taliban rule.
