A Struggling Afghan Veteran's Desperate Path

Accused Shooter's Background and Struggles

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. His actions have reignited debates about mental health, immigration policies, and the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

From Afghanistan to the U.S.

• Service in the "Zero Units": Lakanwal served in a CIA-backed Afghan force known as the "Zero Units."
• Resettlement in the U.S.: He resettled in Bellingham, Washington, with his family in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome.

Struggles in the U.S.

• Financial and Employment Issues: Fired from a job at a laundromat due to missing work authorization documents, despite being approved for asylum.
• Mental Health and Isolation: Reports indicate long periods of isolation, sudden impulsive actions, and concerns about his well-being.
• Refusal of Assistance: Despite warnings, Lakanwal and his family refused help from a refugee organization.

Unanswered Calls for Help

• CIA Program for Zero Unit Veterans: Lakanwal sought help from a CIA program designed to aid veterans with immigration issues, but his pleas went unanswered.

Political and Community Reactions

Debates on Vetting and Immigration Policies

• Criticism of Vetting Processes: Some officials blame the Biden administration for alleged lax vetting processes.
• Extensive Vetting: Lakanwal underwent extensive vetting, both in Afghanistan and after his arrival in the U.S.

Impact on the Afghan Zero Unit Community

• Tight-Knit Community: The Afghan Zero Unit community is bonded by shared experiences and the pain of losing their country.
• Fear of Backlash: They fear that Lakanwal's actions will make it harder for them to live and work in America.