Published on, Sept. 24 -- September 24, 2025 10:09 AM

Afghan refugees in Pakistan face uncertainty as hopes of relocation to Western nations fade. Around 15,000 Afghans in Islamabad were prepared to fly to the US, but refugee admissions were indefinitely suspended. Thousands more wait for relocation, while changing global sentiment and Pakistani deportation risks threaten their safety.

Girls and women face particular danger, as returning to Afghanistan means losing access to education and jobs. Shayma, 15, and her bandmates live in hiding while pursuing music, knowing their futures are at stake. Refugees report moving multiple times to avoid detection and Taliban retribution.

Many Afghan families had worked with US-led forces or Wester...