Chairman McCaul's Stand for Afghanistan, and the Path Towards Democracy and Justice

By KUMAYL YUSUF NAZARY | August 14, 2023 | kumayl@wearenrf.org | @knazary

In the ever-changing theater of politics, genuine conviction often plays second fiddle to political expediency. But sometimes, a politician takes a stand that resonates with the principles many hold dear. Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is one such politician, vowing to “put a hold” on funding to Afghanistan, pending assurances that it won’t go to the Taliban terrorists.

As the eve of August 15th approaches, marking two years since the Fall of Kabul, a date that now stands as a twisted symbol of ‘independence’ for the Taliban and a day of profound mourning for the people of Afghanistan—we find ourselves at a crucial crossroads. The decision to halt U.S. funding to Afghanistan resonates with many Americans. But should it be the end of our engagement? Is a mere reduction in funds adequate, or must we consider extending support to Afghanistan’s democratic forces, aiding them in their endeavor to reclaim their nation?

The Taliban is severely repressing women and girls in Afghanistan. Until we can be sure taxpayer dollars are not helping to prop up the Taliban's oppressive rule, I'm prepared to put a hold on U.S. funding. https://t.co/nXQg7EspwJ

— Michael McCaul (@RepMcCaul) August 14, 2023

Read more here.

Chairman McCaul has consistently displayed a keen understanding of the need to ensure that the U.S. taxpayers’ money doesn’t fuel the repression in Afghanistan, where education is denied to women, where humanitarian women workers are unemployed, and where human rights are a fading dream.

But let’s dig deeper.

While a reduction in funds is a strong move, the United States should consider extending support to Afghanistan’s democratic forces, aiding them in their endeavor to reclaim their nation.

It’s not just the money, but the soul of nations we’re talking about. The Taliban terrorists, once pushed into obscurity, are back with their reign of terror. The people of Afghanistan are suffering.

Why should America care about Afghanistan, some might ask? The answer goes beyond a moral obligation to stand up against oppression, though that alone should resonate with our nation’s core values and that of the democratic forces in Afghanistan who’ve been fighting for freedom, resisting surrender to the Taliban terrorists for 2 years now, with no support from the international community.

Furthermore, the rise of extremist groups in Afghanistan isn't confined to that region; it threatens global security, including our own. A volatile Afghanistan influences global stability, affecting trade routes, energy prices, and more.

Although some, like the Biden administration, would love for Afghanistan to disappear off the map - the reality is that this issue transcends borders, and it's one that touches every American citizen. The decision to act, or not - will be felt across the world, reflecting back on us, our principles, and our future. In recognizing the interconnectedness of our world, we can't afford to turn a blind eye. Our government should have acted sooner but it’s not too late to consider extending support to Afghanistan's democratic forces, a move that is not merely a choice but a necessity.

Chairman McCaul’s decision to put a hold on funds is more than symbolic; it’s an opportunity. It’s a chance for the U.S. to support a free, just, and democratic Afghanistan.

In another recent tweet, the Congressman from Texas emphasized:

.@StateDept must fully comply with my subpoena for key documents related to the Biden admin's botched Afghanistan withdrawal. I will not rest until we do get answers, accountability, and transparency as to what happened. pic.twitter.com/sd7L3c2Pry

— Michael McCaul (@RepMcCaul) August 14, 2023

The stakes are high. We must ensure that our shared goal not only prevents Afghanistan from becoming a haven for terrorists but also contributes to the establishment of a responsible government.

Let’s not just hold funds; let’s take action.

McCaul’s leadership is commendable. But we have to make sure it counts.

In the words of Franz Kafka, “Don’t bend; don’t water it down; don’t try to make it logical; don’t edit your own soul according to the fashion.” If we stand for justice, democracy, and human rights, let’s follow these principles with unwavering dedication.

Let’s support the democratic forces in Afghanistan. Chairman McCaul, the people of Afghanistan are looking to you, and this is how we can work towards rebuilding the bridges that have been burned as a result of the Biden administration’s utter incompetence. Thank you for leading the way.