In a significant policy reversal, nearly 900 elite Afghan special forces operatives, who risked their lives fighting alongside British troops, have been granted approval for sanctuary in the United Kingdom. This decision marks a victory for campaigners who argued that these soldiers, referred to as the Triples, were unjustly denied assistance despite their heroic service.
Background of the Triples and Initial Rejection
The Triples, comprising members from two elite Afghan units, had been left vulnerable to Taliban retaliation after Whitehall officials initially determined they did not qualify for UK help. Officials claimed that these soldiers had never worked directly for the British government, a stance that sparked outrage among supporters, including British army officers and the Daily Mail's Betrayal of the Brave campaign.
Campaign Efforts and Evidence
Campaigners, bolstered by evidence uncovered with the help of the Daily Mail, proved that the Triples were indeed paid by Britain, establishing a clear debt of gratitude. This evidence was crucial in overturning previous decisions, as ministers acknowledged that earlier assessments under the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (Arap) were not robust.
The Arap scheme was established in April 2021 to assist individuals whose lives were at risk due to their work with UK armed forces prior to the Taliban takeover. However, in 2024, the then-Tory administration admitted flaws in some Arap decisions, leading to a comprehensive review.
Impact on the Triples and Their Families
The announcement in the Commons paves the way for the Triples and their families to be brought to safety, potentially affecting around 6,000 Afghans in total. One former Triple, a 40-year-old who served on the frontlines with UK Special Forces, described the decision as welcome but overdue. He recounted how life had been hell for the Triples as they evaded capture and awaited Britain to do the right thing.
He stated: Finally, we have a chance of a new life with our families and we are grateful, but for some it is too late. We pray that we can escape quickly, because the Taliban will know they must focus on finding us before we can leave Afghanistan.Specific Cases and Tragic Consequences
Among those who may now find refuge in the UK is a Triple who assisted in carrying the body of a deceased British Special Forces officer down a hill and had waited over two years for a decision on his case. The Triples had expressed fury and frustration over blocked sanctuary applications, with reports indicating that one Special Forces officer halted more than 1,000 cases.
Additionally, there were claims that some British officers attempted to prevent Afghans from testifying at inquiries into alleged war crimes by UK soldiers. The Triples have paid a dreadful price for their high-profile opposition to the Taliban, with several members, including senior officers, murdered in revenge attacks.
Review and Future Steps
As of Thursday, approximately 3,300 Triples applications were assessed as part of the review, resulting in 884 decisions being overturned. These individuals will now be eligible to stay in Britain under the Arap scheme, subject to standard visa checks. This move underscores the UK's commitment to honoring its obligations to those who served alongside its forces in conflict zones.
The decision not only provides a lifeline to the Triples but also highlights the ongoing challenges in post-conflict relocation efforts and the importance of robust policy implementation to protect allies in perilous situations.
