UK rushes to rescue Afghan refugees trapped in Pakistan amid visa deadlines and arrest threats

The UK government finds itself in a race against time as it mobilises to evacuate thousands of Afghans stranded in Pakistan. Originally granted sanctuary in Britain for their service alongside coalition forces in Kabul, these individuals face the threat of arrest in Pakistan due to visa-related complications.

Amid a legal challenge from two Afghans stuck in Pakistan, UK's The Independent disclosed a government U-turn. The decision to halt government flights and require Afghans to arrange their own accommodation was overturned, highlighting the pressing concerns for the safety of those awaiting relocation.

Pakistan issued a stern warning to all immigrants, including hundreds of thousands of Afghans, residing in the country illegally. The ultimatum, effective until November 1, threatens detention and deportation for those who fail to comply. Pakistan cited crimes, smuggling, and attacks involving Afghan nationals as reasons for this drastic measure.

Despite the looming threat in Pakistan, the UK government obtained assurances from Islamabad that Afghans eligible for UK relocation will be safeguarded. This assurance is contingent on the swift relocation of these individuals by UK politicians. Diplomatic efforts secure a commitment to continue chartered flights out of Islamabad until December.

UK chartered flights agreed for Afghan evacuation

In a collaborative effort with the Pakistan government, the UK organised chartered flights to transfer approximately 3,000 refugees to safety in Britain. Ministers assured that all Afghans eligible for the UK's resettlement schemes would have accommodations, even in hotels if necessary.

The initial chartered flight, carrying around 200 Afghans, is set to depart from Islamabad to the UK on Thursday, marking the beginning of the evacuation process. A total of 12 chartered flights are scheduled to facilitate the relocation of Afghan allies facing imminent challenges in Pakistan.

Around 3,000 individuals are awaiting transfer to the UK in Islamabad, with hundreds facing a similar situation in Iran, reported Kabul-based Khaama Press.

Recent incidents, including police raids on UK-funded hotels in Islamabad and arrests of Afghans with expired visas, underscored the challenges in the evacuation process. British High Commission interventions became crucial in securing the release of individuals facing visa-related complications.

A UK government spokesperson said: “The UK has made an ambitious and generous commitment to help at-risk people in Afghanistan and, so far, we have brought around 24,600 people to safety, including thousands of people eligible for our Afghan schemes."

“We continue to honour our commitments to bring eligible Afghans to the UK, with new arrivals going directly into settled accommodation where possible," the spokesperson added.