☰ Menu Enter Search Term(s): Choose your area of search: Submit Search You are here Operation Allies Welcome Washington (Sept. 3, 2021) Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas conducts a press conference to provide updates on Operation Allies Welcome, the department-led effort to resettle Afghan refugees. Bob Fenton, selected by the secretary to oversee the operation, also delivered remarks. (DHS Photo by Zachary Hupp/Released) View Original On August 29, 2021, President Biden directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to lead and coordinate ongoing efforts across the federal government to support vulnerable Afghans, including those who worked alongside us in Afghanistan for the past two decades, as they safely resettle in the United States. At the President’s direction, the Secretary of Homeland Security is working with representatives from across the government to coordinate our response and ensure unity of effort. To lead the effort in support of Operation Allies Welcome, DHS established a Unified Coordination Group (UCG). The UCG reports directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security and coordinates the implementation of a broad range of services, including initial processing, COVID-19 testing, isolation of COVID-positive individuals, vaccinations, additional medical services, and screening and support for individuals who are neither U.S. citizens nor lawful permanent residents. This support includes initial processing at pre-designated U.S. military bases prior to being connected with non-governmental organizations for resettlement into communities. The work of the UCG is undertaken in close collaboration with partners in state and local government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. Operational Phases How You Can Help Press Releases and Statements Presidential Memorandum Frequently Asked Questions Benefits for Humanitarian Parolees Fact Sheets Multimedia For More Information Disclaimer Last Published Date: November 17, 2021 Was this page helpful? Yes No You are here Home > In Focus > Operation Allies Welcome Accessibility Site Links Back to Top