Afghan Suspect in Washington DC Guard Shooting Likely Radicalized in US; Vetting Process Sparks Fierce Political Debate

Afghan Suspect in Washington D.C. Shooting: Radicalization and Vetting Controversy

A high-stakes investigation is currently focused on Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national suspected of radicalization after allegedly shooting two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C. The November 26 incident, which occurred mere blocks from the White House, resulted in the tragic death of a 20-year-old guardsman and left another critically injured.

Homeland Security's Assessment on Radicalization

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed during Sunday talk show appearances that investigators believe the 29-year-old suspect underwent radicalization after entering the United States. Noem stated, "We do believe it was through connections in his home community and state," adding that authorities are actively interviewing Lakanwal’s family members and associates to gather more information regarding his motives and radicalization process.

Suspect's Entry and Background

Lakanwal arrived in the U.S. in 2021 as part of the significant airlift operation conducted by then-President Joe Biden’s administration, following the American military withdrawal from Afghanistan and the subsequent return to power of Taliban forces. A resident of Washington state, Lakanwal reportedly drove across the country to carry out the attack, which deeply disturbed Americans on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Prior to his arrival in the United States, Lakanwal had reportedly served with a CIA-backed Afghan "partner force" unit that fought against the Taliban.

Political Fallout and Vetting Debates

The incident has fueled intense political debate concerning the robustness of vetting procedures for Afghan evacuees. Officials from former President Donald Trump’s administration, which reportedly granted Lakanwal U.S. asylum in April 2025, have publicly criticized the Biden administration for allegedly lax vetting during the 2021 Afghan airlift. Secretary Noem herself acknowledged that Lakanwal was "maybe vetted" upon entry but assessed the process as "not done well."

Former President Trump further amplified these criticisms via his Truth Social platform on Sunday, asserting that "Crooked Joe Biden, Mayorkas, and so-called 'Border Czar' Kamala Harris really screwed our Country by letting anyone and everyone come in totally unchecked and unvetted!"

Government Response

In light of these events, the U.S. government has since suspended visas for all Afghan nationals and frozen decisions on all asylum cases involving them, reflecting a tightened stance on immigration from the region.