In the wake of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, retired Green Beret John Paluska has taken up the fight to protect his fellow soldier, Habib, from the threat of the Taliban. Habib managed to escape to Turkey, but Paluska is now in Istanbul, attempting to find a way for his friend to reach safety in the United States. However, it seems that Habib’s journey to freedom is far from over.
Paluska’s involvement in the fight against terrorism began shortly after the September 11 attacks when he volunteered to help with the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. Following this, he enlisted in the Army and eventually became a member of the Green Berets. It was during his time in Afghanistan that he met Habib, an intelligence sergeant in an elite Afghan National Army Special Operations Command unit. Despite the language barrier, Habib formed close relationships with Paluska and other Green Berets.
When Paluska left Afghanistan, Habib and his team continued to fight, but their numbers were greatly reduced by the time of the U.S. withdrawal. Paluska felt a deep sense of responsibility for Habib’s safety and made it his mission to save him from the Taliban. However, despite his efforts, Habib was left behind during the initial evacuation.
Habib’s life took a drastic turn as he faced threats and reprisals from the Taliban. Paluska is concerned that Habib’s biometric data may be compromised and that the Taliban could use it against him. However, the Defense Department has stated that they have accounted for all U.S. biometric devices used in Afghanistan and that the Taliban cannot access U.S. databases.
In the meantime, Paluska has been providing support for Habib’s family, including food, necessities, and financial assistance. The situation in Afghanistan is fraught with danger, and simple setbacks can quickly become complex obstacles. Habib himself attempted to flee to Turkey but was arrested and detained before being released.
Now living as an illegal refugee in Turkey, Habib faces numerous challenges and risks. He works long hours in a manufacturing plant and lives in poor conditions. He avoids going out in public to avoid detection and fears being sent back to Afghanistan by Turkish or Iranian forces. Paluska arrived in Istanbul to help Habib and has been working to find a legal pathway for him to find safety. Unfortunately, the U.S. Embassy has confirmed that there is no easy solution for Habib’s situation.
Paluska had believed that Habib might be eligible for a special immigrant visa, but it seems that Afghan military personnel who worked alongside U.S. forces are not currently eligible. Advocacy groups argue that this is unjust and are working to change the policy.
In the face of these challenges, Paluska remains determined to help his friend and fellow soldier. Together, they are navigating the complex and dangerous path to safety, hoping for a resolution that will allow Habib to find refuge in the United States or Turkey.