The tragic shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C. last week has reignited discussions surrounding U.S. immigration policy. The suspected shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is now at the center of this national conversation. The incident resulted in the death of one soldier and has raised questions about the adequacy of the immigration vetting process.
Background on Rahmanullah Lakanwal
Rahmanullah Lakanwal entered the United States in September 2021 as part of “Operation Allies Welcome.” This initiative by the Biden administration aimed to resettle thousands of Afghan evacuees following the American military withdrawal from Afghanistan and the subsequent Taliban takeover. U.S. officials reported that Lakanwal was granted humanitarian parole, which allowed him to live and work legally in the U.S. for an initial period of two years.
Vetting Process and Concerns
During his arrival, Lakanwal underwent an initial round of vetting at military bases in various countries. Concerns about the vetting process emerged among Republican lawmakers, prompting investigations. A 2022 report from the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General highlighted obstacles that compromised the vetting accuracy.
Asylum Application Timeline
In December 2024, Lakanwal applied for asylum, claiming potential persecution upon returning to Afghanistan. His application represented another opportunity for the U.S. government to assess his background. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires asylum applicants to attend in-person interviews and undergo background checks, including biometrics and social media scrutiny.
- 96% of Afghan asylum cases since summer 2021 have been approved.
- Only 120 cases were denied out of 21,201 Afghan asylum requests.
Lakanwal’s background in a CIA-backed “Zero Unit” could have contributed to his asylum claim, given the danger he might face from the Taliban. His asylum was approved in April 2025, which did not equate to permanent residency but allowed him to apply for a green card after one year.
Current Status and Legal Implications
At the time of the shooting, Lakanwal’s application for adjustment of status was pending. Under U.S. law, an asylee’s status can be revoked if they commit serious crimes. If this occurs, the individual may be subjected to deportation proceedings. The outcome of these proceedings would likely occur after the criminal charges related to the shooting are resolved.
Political Ramifications
This incident has prompted officials from the Trump administration to criticize the Biden administration for allowing Lakanwal entry. Meanwhile, critics place blame on Trump’s administration for previously approving his asylum request. The debate continues as authorities examine potential gaps in the immigration vetting procedure.
As the investigation unfolds, discussions regarding the immigration policy and its implications on national security will undoubtedly persist.
