NEW YORK, NY (August 18, 2021) – The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) supports the withdrawal of United States forces from Afghanistan. In February of 2020, the Trump administration made an agreement with the Taliban according to which United States forces would move out of Afghanistan by May 2021. By implementing it, President Biden and his administration have honored that agreement.
Twenty years of the American war in Afghanistan have led to the deaths of over 2500 American military service members and tens of thousands of innocent Afghans. Over two trillion dollars have been spent, and not to forget thousands who got injured. It is time for American policymakers to reassess our foreign policy. As Americans, we stand for democracy and government by the people, for the people. It is time that we let the people of Afghanistan freely choose their leadership and the way of government.
The people of Afghanistan are facing a terrible humanitarian crisis. We urge the United Nations and the international community to provide generous support that helps the people of Afghanistan rebuild vital infrastructure, education systems, and healthcare.
Islam stands for peace and justice. Providing education, equality, and ensuring the rights and freedom of all men and women–and especially minorities—is essential. It is very encouraging that the new leadership in Afghanistan has declared that they will respect human rights, with particular mention made of women and minorities. We call upon this new leadership to fulfill their pledge.
In these uncertain times, Helping Hand for Relief and Development is already on the ground in Afghanistan helping internally displaced persons (IDPs) and those who need help. Moreover, ICNA Relief USA has made plans to support those Afghans who will settle in the United States and require assistance.
“Our prayers and sympathies are with the families of Americans, Afghans, and others who have lost their lives during these last twenty years.” -Mohsin Ansari, MD, President, ICNA.
