A Closer Look at the National Guard Shooting Suspect's Background

A recent incident in Washington, D. C. , has sparked a debate about the vetting process for individuals granted asylum in the United States. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is accused of shooting two National Guard members. Lakanwal worked with the CIA during the U. S. war in Afghanistan and came to the U. S. after the Taliban took control in 2021. He was granted asylum in April. The Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, suggested that Lakanwal might have been radicalized after his arrival in the U. S. She claimed that the vetting process, which took place under the Biden administration, was not thorough enough. Noem argued that the information used for vetting was collected during the Biden administration and that the responsibility lies with them. However, this claim has been contested. John Cohen, a former Homeland Security undersecretary for intelligence, stated that individuals under Operation Allies Welcome were vetted against both classified and unclassified intelligence. He mentioned that while there were some delays, extensive vetting took place at processing locations. Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen criticized the Trump administration's decision to pause all asylum decisions following the shooting. He argued that it is unfair to punish an entire class of people for the actions of one individual. Van Hollen emphasized that these individuals had worked alongside the U. S. in the fight against the Taliban and could face severe consequences if sent back. The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of the vetting process and the potential for radicalization after arrival. It also highlights the political divide on immigration policies and the treatment of asylum seekers.