US Court Halts Afghan Deportations Amid Safety Concerns

• •A federal judge has blocked Afghan deportations until November 7, 2026.
• •US authorities reportedly planned to deport 150 Afghans to Pakistan, then Afghanistan.
• •Rights groups warn deportees face persecution, torture, or death upon return.

A New York federal judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of Afghan nationals from the US due to safety concerns. The ruling comes after warnings from lawmakers and rights groups that deporting these individuals to Afghanistan or Pakistan could endanger their lives. Reports indicate that US authorities planned to deport 150 Afghans via a flight from Louisiana to Pakistan, which would then send them to Afghanistan. The US State Department has not confirmed these deportation plans, emphasizing the need for countries to manage their borders responsibly. The Taliban has urged the US to respect the rights of Afghans facing deportation and expressed willingness to engage constructively with Washington. This situation arises amid a broader trend of countries, including Pakistan, deporting Afghans since the Taliban's return to power in 2021. Rights organizations have raised alarms about potential persecution faced by these deportees, particularly those who assisted US forces. The court's decision is effective until November 7, 2026.