What's happened
On November 27, 2025, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan who served in CIA-backed paramilitary units, shot two National Guard members near the White House, killing one and critically wounding the other. Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome and was granted asylum in 2025. The attack has sparked scrutiny of refugee vetting and immigration policies.
What's behind the headline?
Vetting and Security Failures
The shooting exposes critical gaps in the US vetting process for Afghan evacuees. While Lakanwal underwent military vetting to serve in Afghanistan, this did not equate to thorough screening for integration into American society. The Biden administration's expedited immigration policies, designed to rapidly resettle allies, sacrificed depth of background checks, as noted by intelligence officials and DHS reports.
Political Weaponization
The incident has been seized upon by political figures, notably former President Trump, to criticize the Biden administration's immigration policies. Trump's calls to halt Afghan immigration and review all arrivals reflect a broader agenda to tighten immigration controls, often conflating isolated incidents with systemic threats.
Human Cost and Mental Health
Lakanwal's history reveals the psychological toll of prolonged conflict, with reports of PTSD and trauma influencing his behavior. This dimension underscores the challenges of resettling war veterans who require comprehensive mental health support, which appears insufficient in current programs.
Impact on Afghan Allies
The attack risks stigmatizing the broader Afghan refugee community, many of whom have integrated peacefully. Advocacy groups warn against collective blame, emphasizing that the actions of one individual should not undermine the safety and dignity of thousands of allies who contributed to US efforts.
Forecast
Expect intensified scrutiny and potential policy shifts in refugee vetting, with possible delays or suspensions in Afghan immigration. The political climate will likely harden, affecting bipartisan cooperation on immigration reform. Meanwhile, mental health services for veterans and refugees may receive increased attention as a preventive measure.
What the papers say
The New York Times, through Julian E. Barnes, provides detailed insight into the CIA's vetting process for Afghan partner forces, highlighting the agency's confidence in their screening despite human rights criticisms. The NY Post offers a nuanced portrait of Lakanwal, emphasizing his military service, mental health struggles, and the complexities of his immigration status under Operation Allies Welcome. The Independent and Sky News focus on the immediate aftermath of the attack, the victims' conditions, and political reactions, including Trump's condemnation and calls for immigration policy reviews. Al Jazeera and Reuters report on official responses, including DHS's halt on Afghan immigration processing and the FBI's terrorism investigation. These sources collectively reveal tensions between security concerns, political agendas, and humanitarian obligations, providing a comprehensive view of the incident and its broader implications.
How we got here
Following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Operation Allies Welcome resettled approximately 76,000 Afghans who aided US forces. Many, including Lakanwal, served in CIA-backed 'Zero Units' known for intense vetting but also accused of human rights abuses. The vetting process for Afghan evacuees has faced criticism amid concerns over security and integration.
Go deeper
- What vetting processes were used for Afghan evacuees under Operation Allies Welcome?
- How has the US government responded to the shooting near the White House?
- What are the implications for Afghan refugees in the US after this attack?
Common question
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Who is Rahmanullah Lakanwal and what happened during the White House shooting?
The recent incident involving Rahmanullah Lakanwal near the White House has raised many questions about security, immigration, and national safety. Who is this suspect, and what does his background tell us about the security measures in place? Below, we explore the key details of the case and what it means for US security policies.
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What Are the Latest Developments in Global Terrorism and Security Concerns?
Recent events highlight growing concerns over regional stability and international security. From the US's move to designate the Muslim Brotherhood to new threats emerging from the Middle East and beyond, understanding these developments is crucial. How are governments responding, and what can citizens expect in terms of safety and policy changes? Below, we explore the key questions shaping today's security landscape.
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What Happened During the White House Shooting and Is There a Threat to National Security?
A recent shooting near the White House has raised serious questions about security and potential threats. Understanding what happened, who was involved, and what it means for national safety is crucial. Below, we explore the details of the incident, the suspect's background, and the broader implications for US security policies.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
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