The U.S. State Department office responsible for resettling Afghan refugees is facing closure by April, a move that could block up to 200,000 Afghans from finding refuge in the United States. The directive, confirmed by a U.S. official and multiple sources, affects Afghans who worked for the U.S. government, family members of Afghan-American military personnel, and children awaiting reunification with their parents.

The Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE) was initially set up during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 to assist Afghans at risk of Taliban retaliation. In 2022, it became a permanent entity, expanding its operations to include those granted refugee status. Since its establishment, CARE has helped resettle approximately 118,000 Afghans.

Shawn VanDiver, founder of the #AfghanEvac coalition, strongly criticized the potential closure, calling it a “national disgrace” and a betrayal of Afghan allies and U.S. veterans.

The closure plan is reportedly being developed following a broader directive to cut federal spending and streamline the diplomatic corps. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz are among those expected to make the final decision.

The shutdown would impact Afghan processing centers in Qatar and Albania, where nearly 3,000 vetted refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders are currently stranded. Among them are more than 20 unaccompanied minors awaiting reunification with their families. These individuals receive basic shelter and food, but a recent freeze on foreign aid has ended support for mental health and children’s programs.

Since President Donald Trump’s return to office in January, the resettlement process has been stalled due to a 90-day review of the U.S. refugee program and foreign aid funding. Trump has cited the need to ensure these programs align with his foreign policy goals.

Human rights advocates warn that shutting down CARE and its associated operations could leave thousands vulnerable to Taliban persecution. UN reports indicate that the Taliban continue to target former government workers despite an official amnesty.

With an estimated 110,000 Afghans still awaiting SIV and refugee status processing and thousands stranded in third countries, the potential closure of CARE raises serious humanitarian concerns. Advocates are urging the Biden administration to reconsider the decision and honor its commitments to Afghan allies.