FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 14, 2021
CONTACT: press@iava.org

Washington, DC – In response to President Biden’s decision to launch Operation Allies Refuge and begin relocation flights to protect our Afghan allies, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) released the following statement:

“IAVA has been a strong supporter of the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program and we are encouraged to see progress in protecting those that served side-by-side with our troops in Afghanistan by beginning evacuations before the end of July,” said Jeremy Butler, IAVA CEO. “While we understand the need for operational security to ensure the safety for all involved, we must ensure that this operation is as robust as possible, to protect all of our allies and their families, including those not yet in the SIV pipeline, from the Taliban. IAVA encourages the Administration to release more details on Operation Allies Refuge as soon as possible to allow humanitarian, veteran, and other assistance organizations to maximize their ability to support our allies throughout this process.”  

IAVA is the voice for the post-9/11 veteran generation. With over 425,000 veterans and allies nationwide, IAVA is the leader in non-partisan veteran advocacy and public awareness. We drive historic impacts for veterans and IAVA’s programs are second to none. Any veteran or family member in need can reach out to IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force at quickreactionforce.org or 855-91RAPID (855-917-2743) to be connected promptly with a veteran care manager who will assist. IAVA’s The Vote Hub is a free tool to register to vote and find polling information. IAVA’s membership is always growing. Join the movement at iava.org/membership.

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