An unexpected connection emerges in a thwarted election day terror plot, raising questions about vetting processes and national security.
According to a report by Western Journal, the Afghan refugee charged with planning a terrorist attack on election day previously worked as a security guard for the CIA in Afghanistan.
Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, now stands accused of plotting an attack on behalf of the Islamic State. The criminal complaint against him alleges that he had been preparing to carry out violence during the upcoming election.
The NBC report, citing unnamed sources, contradicts the Justice Department's initial claim that Tawhedi entered the United States in 2021 on a Special Immigrant Visa. Instead, the sources suggest he arrived under humanitarian parole, which typically involves less rigorous screening.
This discrepancy has raised concerns about the vetting process for Afghan refugees entering the country following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
The case has sparked debate about the effectiveness of current screening measures for individuals entering the United States. Donald Trump Jr. expressed his concerns on social media, directly criticizing the Biden-Harris administration's border policies.
A U.S. official, responding to the situation, insisted that thorough vetting procedures are in place for all Afghan refugees resettled in the country.
The Department of Homeland Security also released a statement defending their screening process:
Afghan evacuees who sought to enter the United States were subject to multi layered screening and vetting against intelligence, law enforcement, and counterterrorism information. If new information emerges after arrival, appropriate action is taken.
Court documents reveal that Tawhedi had recently purchased weapons and ammunition from an undercover FBI operative. The alleged plan involved coordinating with a juvenile, described as an Afghan citizen with legal permanent resident status.
Investigators claim that Tawhedi had communicated with members of the Islamic State, expressing his willingness to carry out their orders. A court filing quotes him as writing, "God willing, with the help of God, we will get ready for the election day."
The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in preventing potential terrorist attacks, especially those involving individuals who have entered the country through various immigration programs.
This incident is likely to intensify scrutiny of the Biden-Harris administration's handling of the Afghan refugee resettlement program and broader national security policies. Critics argue that cases like Tawhedi's demonstrate vulnerabilities in the system that could be exploited by extremist groups.
The arrest of Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi has brought to light significant concerns about the vetting of Afghan refugees. It raises questions about the effectiveness of current screening processes. The case highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing humanitarian efforts with national security priorities.
