The United States Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, revealed that approximately 2,000 of the 18,000 Afghan citizens evacuated to the United States under Operation Allies Welcome may have ties to terrorist organizations.
Gabbard criticized the Biden administration’s vetting process, describing it as slow and inadequate. She stated that while all evacuees are now undergoing thorough review, initial investigations suggest a significant number may pose security risks.
The intelligence chief warned that terrorist groups like ISIS continue to plan attacks on U.S. soil and are actively seeking individuals within the country to further their aims. She emphasized the importance of heightened security measures amid these emerging threats.
Gabbard also highlighted a rise in illegal entries into the United States over recent years, marking another challenge for national security authorities. The revelations raise urgent questions about the effectiveness of current screening protocols and the risks posed by the recent influx of Afghan nationals.
