Afghanistan's Taliban government has asked the United States to act responsibly and cautiously when deporting Afghan immigrants. In a statement on Monday, the Afghan foreign ministry said Afghans should be treated in line with the law, accepted principles and human dignity wherever they are in the world.
The ministry said any decisions on the fate of Afghan citizens should rest on a clear bilateral understanding, proper coordination and respect for the rights of those affected. It added that the Afghan side was prepared, "while understanding the existing realities and taking into consideration the legitimate interests of both sides", to engage constructively on the issue.
The statement also said third countries should not treat another country's citizens as a bargaining chip in exchange for limited, temporary concessions.
According to sources, President Donald Trump's administration plans to deport more than 150 Afghan immigrants, with the first flight expected soon. Because Washington has no diplomatic ties with the Taliban government, the deportations are to go through Pakistan. US veterans' and advocacy groups say those affected may include relatives of Afghans who worked with US forces before the 2021 withdrawal.