Consider This from NPR Afghan CIA fighters face stark reality in the U.S.
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Dec 12, 2025 Brian Mann, an NPR reporter known for his investigative work, delves into the lives of Afghan fighters from CIA's Zero Units now resettled in the U.S. He highlights the tragic story of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who faced dire consequences after his evacuation. The conversation uncovers the mental health struggles, including PTSD, among these veterans, with alarming suicide rates. Mann also discusses the immigration hurdles they face and the political backlash complicating their new lives, painting a nuanced picture of their stark reality.
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Survivor’s Close Call With CIA Agent
- Dawood recalls being vetted, fighting intense battles, and having an American CIA agent save his life in a firefight.
- His story shows deep personal bonds formed between Afghan Zero Unit fighters and U.S. operatives during the war.
Frontline Role Created Deep Expectations
- Zero Units were the 'tip of the spear' doing the most dangerous missions so Americans didn't have to.
- That frontline role created expectations of lifelong reciprocity that influenced fighters' expectations of U.S. responsibility.
Vetting Didn’t Speed Immigration
- Many evacuated Zero Unit fighters faced prolonged immigration delays despite CIA vetting and requests for documentation.
- Classified status of their records blocked straightforward verification, creating bureaucratic stalemates.