**Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Calls for Fulfillment of Afghan Commitments**
*Afghanistan –* In a recent commentary, former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Uzra Zeya urged the United States to fully honor its commitments to Afghan allies. Zeya emphasized the need for Washington to relax restrictive refugee and resettlement policies, reinstate humanitarian assistance, and ensure that Afghan women are included in the formulation of U.S. policy toward Afghanistan.
Zeya’s remarks come amid ongoing concerns that the United States has slowed visa processing and limited refugee admissions for Afghans who assisted U.S. operations during the two‑decade presence in the country. She highlighted that honoring these obligations is essential for maintaining credibility with partners and for addressing the humanitarian crisis that has intensified since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021.
The former deputy secretary also called for the restoration of humanitarian aid that has been curtailed in recent months, noting that such assistance is critical for vulnerable populations across Afghanistan, particularly women and girls who face heightened restrictions under the current regime.
The commentary was published by *Afghanistan International* and referenced a broader U.S. policy shift that includes a pause on visa appointments worldwide, a measure that has further complicated the resettlement process for Afghan refugees.
No official response from the U.S. State Department has been reported at this time.
Article and image source: aopnews.com
