A Struggling Afghan Veteran's Desperate Path

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D. C. His actions have sparked debates about mental health, immigration policies, and the aftermath of the U. S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Lakanwal served in a CIA-backed Afghan force known as the “Zero Units. ” He resettled in Bellingham, Washington, with his family in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome. However, his transition to life in the U. S. was far from smooth. Financial struggles and mental health issues plagued Lakanwal. He was fired from a job at a laundromat due to missing work authorization documents, despite being approved for asylum. His nephew's application to the Bellingham housing authority highlighted Lakanwal's isolation, lack of English skills, and the need for community support. Lakanwal's mental state was unstable, with reports of long periods of isolation and sudden, impulsive actions. A community advocate expressed concerns about his well-being, fearing he might be suicidal. Despite these warnings, Lakanwal and his family refused assistance from a refugee organization. Lakanwal sought help from a CIA program designed to aid Zero Unit veterans with immigration issues. However, his pleas went unanswered. This lack of support added to his frustration and desperation. The shooting has reignited political debates. Some officials blame the Biden administration for alleged lax vetting processes. However, Lakanwal underwent extensive vetting, both in Afghanistan and after his arrival in the U. S. The Afghan Zero Unit community is tight-knit, bonded by shared experiences and the pain of losing their country. They are heartbroken by the accusations and the potential impact on their lives in the U. S. They fear that Lakanwal's actions will make it harder for them to live and work in America.