On August 25, Canada’s military ended its mission at Kabul airport, bringing with them 1,000 more Afghans while leaving thousands of Canadians stranded in the tumultuous country.
According to General Wayne Eyre, Canadian forces were some of the last to leave Afghanistan, and that the military is regretful over their decision to leave many behind.
“The government of Canada recognizes that there are a number of people in Afghanistan, including Canadian citizens, permanent residents, their families, and applicants under programs for Afghans,” said a government notice obtained by the CBC.
“Until such a time that the security situation stabilizes, be mindful of the security environment and, where possible, take the necessary steps to ensure your security and that of your family.”
Eyre says that approximately 3,700 people have been brought to Canada since the Taliban regime change began earlier this month. Additionally, Daniel Mills, assistant deputy minister with the Immigration Department, says that 8,000 special asylum applications have come from Afghans, with 2,600 Afghan nationals now resettled in Canada.
According to Eyre, most Canadian personnel have now left the country, with a small contingent remaining to support allies. Moreover, it is still unclear how many Canadians remain stranded in the country as a Pentagon spokesperson confirmed an explosion outside Kabul’s airport earlier today.
“The conditions our armed forces members [were] working under were unlike anything we’ve seen in decades, even during our previous mission in Afghanistan,” Eyre said.
“They’ve witnessed horrific things. They’ve faced incredible dangers. And the feeling of helplessness and guilt that arises from having to leave people behind can be overwhelming.”
With many left in a precarious situation, the Canadian government and military have issued assurances to conduct additional operations to process applications and bring more people to Canada, whether returning or coming for the first time.
“I want to assure you that IRCC has been and continues to work tirelessly to process all applications under our special immigration measures,” said Mills.
PM Justin Trudeau has said that the government will continue to work diligently to achieve the government’s goal of resettling at least 20,000 Afghans this year.
“Our continued work to put pressure on the Taliban alongside our international allies to allow people to leave Afghanistan and come to safety and Canada will continue,” Trudeau said Thursday while campaigning in Quebec.
“This particular moment is done, and it’s heartbreaking to see. But there is much more to do, and Canada will continue to be there for Afghans and the Afghan people.”
