British Afghan Community pays tribute to British Armed Forces and Veterans who served in Afghanistan

Credit; ACAA

The Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA), an award-winning UK-based charity representing and supporting the Afghan community, has expressed its deep respect, gratitude and solidarity with the thousands of British Armed Forces, Veterans, and bereaved families, who served on the front line in Afghanistan following the NATO intervention in 2001.

A statement said: “ACAA disagrees entirely with the statement made by President Donald Trump suggesting that British troops avoided front-line service in Afghanistan. This claim is inaccurate, upsetting, painful and deeply hurtful to those who served and to the families of those who lost their lives. The United Kingdom alone had 457 service personnel killed and suffered the second-highest number of military deaths in the Afghanistan conflict, after the United States.”

“ACAA wishes to state clearly and unequivocally that British servicemen and women did serve on the front line in Afghanistan, often in the most dangerous and demanding conditions. Many paid the ultimate price for their service, and countless others returned home bearing physical and psychological scars.

“The UK Armed Forces did not avoid danger. They served on the front line, in sustained combat operations, and many lost their lives while carrying out their duty.

“On behalf of the Afghan community in the United Kingdom, ACAA pays tribute to the courage, professionalism, and sacrifice of British servicemen and women who were deployed to Afghanistan with the aim of rebuilding the country and helping to restore peace and stability after decades of conflict.

“For over 20 years, the British Armed Forces played a central role in security operations, reconstruction efforts and the protection of civilians. Their presence helped millions of Afghans gain access to education, healthcare, and basic freedoms during a critical period in the country’s history.”

Darius Nasimi, Head of Funding and Partnerships at The Afghanistan and Central Asian Association, said: “As the largest UK charity rooted in the Afghan community, we know first-hand the impact British troops had on the lives of ordinary Afghans. They did not stand back. They served on the front line, they protected civilians, and many lost their lives doing so. We honour the memory of those who did not return home and stand in solidarity with British veterans and their families.

“Their sacrifices must always be acknowledged truthfully and with respect. Many people buried friends who never came home. They served with courage and humanity, shoulder to shoulder with the Afghan Army. ACAA works closely with Afghan Veterans now residing in the UK. As members of the Afghan community, we witnessed their presence, their sacrifice, and their commitment first-hand. We will never forget their courage and bravery. We are grateful for their support”

“ACAA extends its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones and reaffirms its continued commitment to promoting understanding, remembrance, and mutual respect between the Afghan and British communities.

“ACAA recognises that the Afghanistan conflict was complex and painful for all involved. However, the bravery and commitment shown by British servicemen and women should never be questioned or undermined.

“Their sacrifice deserves respect. Their service deserves truth. Their loss must never be minimised.”