Summary
Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, stated that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an alleged shooter of two National Guard members, was likely "radicalized" in the U.S. Lakanwal, who worked with American forces in Afghanistan, entered the U.S. through an initiative to help Afghan allies and was granted asylum during the Trump administration. This incident has led to a freeze on immigration requests for Afghan nationals by the current administration.
Key Facts
- Rahmanullah Lakanwal allegedly shot two West Virginia National Guard members in Washington, D.C.
- Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, which helped Afghan allies enter the country.
- His asylum application was approved earlier this year by the Trump administration.
- Kristi Noem blamed the Biden administration for his entry and alleged radicalization.
- The National Counterterrorism Center and CIA initially vetted Lakanwal as having no terrorist group ties.
- Lakanwal's actions led to a freeze on U.S. immigration requests for Afghans.
- Both shooting victims were hospitalized; one died, and the other is in critical condition.
