Afghan Women Face Forced Return After Trump Aid Cuts
Over 80 Afghan women face a forced return after U.S. aid cuts by Trump, halting their university scholarships in Oman.
Over 80 Afghan women, who had fled the Taliban to pursue higher education in Oman, now face the imminent threat of being forced back to Afghanistan. This comes after the Trump administration drastically reduced foreign aid initiatives, cutting off their educational sponsorship funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
Their scholarships were abruptly halted following the discontinuation of financial support, a decision made by President Donald Trump when he resumed office in January.
"It was incredibly disheartening," one student told the BBC, speaking anonymously for fear of retaliation. "Everyone was shocked and in tears. We’ve been told to prepare for a return within two weeks."
Since reclaiming power nearly four years ago, the Taliban has imposed severe restrictions on women, including banning them from continuing their university studies.
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