Around 200 Afghan special forces soldiers, who were trained and funded by the UK, are facing deportation to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan from Pakistan. The UK has been criticized for not fulfilling its promise to relocate these soldiers and key Afghan civilian leaders who worked closely with British forces. Gen Sir Richard Barrons, a former UK general, labeled this situation a “betrayal” and criticized the UK’s handling of the matter.
Key Points:
- Approximately 200 Afghan special forces soldiers, supported by UK training and funding, are at risk of being deported to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan from Pakistan.
- Gen Sir Richard Barrons, a former UK general with extensive experience in Afghanistan, condemns the UK’s failure to relocate these soldiers, considering it a betrayal.
- Despite previous assurances from UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson that these Afghan special forces were crucial, their safety remains in jeopardy.
- Senior British diplomatic and military figures have also called for asylum to be offered to Afghan civilian leaders who worked alongside the UK in Helmand Province, but these calls have been rejected.
- The situation highlights the challenges and potential consequences of unfulfilled promises to allies during times of crisis, endangering those left in perilous situations.