Afghan Woman Who Aided U.S. Post-9/11 Expresses Regret Over Trust in U.S. Government After Family Separation
A 33-year-old Afghan woman, identified only as S for fear of retribution, is grappling with profound regret and heartbreak after her two eldest children remain stranded in Afghanistan following the chaotic U.S. withdrawal in 2021. S had worked as a linguist for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, assisting in efforts to combat drug traffickers and individuals planning attacks against U.S. military personnel in Afghanistan. Her story began after the 9/11 attacks when the U.S. launched its war in Afghanistan, leading to the collapse of the Taliban government and a period where girls, including S, could attend school. She thrived, mastering English and eventually securing a crucial role aiding U.S. operations. However, with the Taliban's return in 2021, S faced immediate danger, leading her to attempt evacuation with her children. During the chaotic scenes at Kabul airport, she was separated from her two older children while trying to secure their entry, a decision she deeply regrets. Despite her servic...
