US governor tells Biden they can take in fleeing Afghans

By Handan Kazanci

ISTANBUL (AA) – A governor of a US state with a large population of formerly persecuted Mormons has told President Joe Biden that Utah would be glad to take in refugees from Afghanistan.

“Today we sent a letter to @POTUS (Biden) expressing our desire in helping those who are fleeing Afghanistan,” wrote Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox on Twitter.

“Utah was settled by refugees fleeing religious persecution. We understand the pain caused by forced migration and appreciate the contributions of refugees in our communities,” he added, posting the letter as well.

The letter comes as some US commentators are voicing opposition to taking in Afghans, especially anti-immigrant commentators popular with Republicans.

“I am deeply saddened by the human tragedy currently unfolding in Afghanistan,” wrote Cox, a Republican governor in a deeply Republican state, but one with a persecuted minority past.

“I recognize Utah plays no direct role in shaping US diplomatic or military policy, but we have a long history of welcoming refuges from around the world and helping them to restart their lives in a new country.”

He added: “We are eager to continue that practice and assist with the resettlement of individuals and families fleeing Afghanistan, especially those who valiantly helped U.S. troops, diplomats, journalists and other civilians over the past 20 years.”

Many politicians and Afghan war veterans have pressed the Biden administration to move faster to take in Afghans who helped the US, saying the country owes them this, especially as they fear persecution under the Taliban.

The war between the Taliban and Afghan forces intensified as foreign troops announced their withdrawal from the country by Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that led to the US invasion.

The Taliban made rapid military advances in recent weeks and took control of the capital on Sunday as Afghan government forces fled or surrendered. Former President Ashraf Ghani also left the country.