The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reported that over 5,000 Afghan refugees, part of President Biden's Operation Allies Welcome in 2021, were flagged for national security issues. In total, 6,868 individuals were identified with 'potential derogatory information.' Of these, 5,005 were associated with national security concerns, while 956 had 'public safety' issues, and 876 were flagged for fraud.

The scrutiny intensified following the shooting of two National Guard members by Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who had previously worked with the CIA in Afghanistan. This incident has led to calls for a review of the vetting protocols for migrants from 19 'high-risk' countries, as well as all asylum cases approved by the previous administration.

Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has expressed ongoing concerns regarding the vetting standards used in Operation Allies Welcome, citing 'glaring red flags' in the program that facilitated the entry of over 70,000 Afghans into the U.S. after the withdrawal. A DHS Inspector General report indicated that the agency faced challenges in screening and vetting all evacuees, resulting in 885 individuals still having unresolved national security concerns as of September.

Additionally, a Justice Department Inspector General report revealed that 55 individuals on a terror watch list managed to enter the U.S. during the evacuation, highlighting the risks associated with expedited processes that may overlook thorough security assessments. The report noted that the urgency of the evacuation may have compromised the standard vetting procedures, increasing the likelihood of allowing individuals with potential threats into the country.

In a related case, two Afghan nationals were charged with planning an ISIS-inspired plot to disrupt the 2024 elections in Oklahoma City. One of the suspects, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, had entered the U.S. on a Special Immigrant Visa and acquired firearms shortly after his arrival.

The situation underscores the complexities and potential risks involved in the U.S. government's efforts to assist Afghan allies amid the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, raising questions about the balance between humanitarian efforts and national security.