Concerns Arise Over Afghan National’s Entry After DC Shooting

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), during former President Biden’s tenure, assured the swift and safe resettlement of Afghan allies in the U.S. However, reports indicate that the man accused of a shooting in Washington, D.C. entered the country through the same program in 2021.

In light of the attack, it was revealed that 29-year-old Rahmanullah Rakanwar, an Afghan national, came to the U.S. on humanitarian parole as part of a coalition effort. Sources from DHS and the FBI confirmed that he was granted legal status to remain in the country.

Back in 2021, amid the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the importance of quickly resettling thousands of Afghan allies. However, he also acknowledged instances where the DHS had rejected some evacuees based on troubling information during the vetting process.

Following the tumultuous U.S. exit and the Taliban’s resurgence, the Biden administration initiated a large-scale operation to help vulnerable Afghans, especially those who had previously aided U.S. forces.

Mayorkas revealed at a press briefing in September 2021 that around 120,000 individuals had been evacuated since the beginning of the withdrawal. The U.S. Air Force managed to airlift thousands in a mere 17 days back in August 2021.

During that same period, Mayorkas mentioned that thorough biometric screening and vetting were established to properly assess individuals coming into the U.S. However, when asked about derogatory reports that had surfaced, he remained vague about the number of individuals affected.

Officials stated that Rakanwar came to the U.S. in September 2021 under Operation Welcoming Allies, which has drawn attention in the wake of the D.C. shooting currently being investigated as a potential international terrorism incident. Two National Guardsmen shot in the attack near the White House are reported to be in critical condition.

In a response, former President Trump labeled Biden a “disastrous president” and criticized the evacuation process, claiming it was mishandled. He pointed out that there seemed to be a lack of oversight regarding who was entering the country under the administration’s policies.

Trump noted, “No one knew who was coming in, no one knew anything about it,” further criticizing the immigration reforms he associated with Biden. He described the attack as emblematic of a significant national security threat and called for a comprehensive review of the entry of foreign nationals into the U.S.

He hinted at serious consequences for Rakanwar, stating that swift justice needed to be served for such a “barbaric attack.”

In a separate statement, Biden expressed his sorrow over the incident, noting his and Jill’s heartbreak for the affected servicemen. He called for unity to combat any form of violence, albeit his comments came prior to the revelation about the gunman’s entry method.

While attempts were made to reach out to DHS for comments regarding Rakanwar’s situation, no response was received in time for this report.