The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has come under fire after a major data breach exposed the personal details of Afghan interpreters who worked with British forces, potentially putting their lives at risk from Taliban reprisals.
The error, described as a "serious failure", occurred when the MOD mistakenly shared an unredacted document containing sensitive information via email. The recipients included individuals believed to have links to the Taliban.
Lives Put at Risk
Many of the affected interpreters had applied for relocation to the UK under the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP). The leaked data included names, contact details, and in some cases, profile pictures.
"This is an unforgivable betrayal of trust," said a former British officer who served in Afghanistan. "These people risked their lives for us, and now we've potentially signed their death warrants."
Government Response
The MOD has apologised and launched an urgent investigation. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace acknowledged the breach in a letter to MPs, stating that "all those affected will be contacted and offered support".
However, critics argue the government must go further:
- Immediate compensation for affected individuals
- Guaranteed safe passage to the UK for those at risk
- A full independent inquiry into the breach
Political Fallout
The scandal has reignited criticism of the UK's handling of Afghan allies following the Taliban takeover in 2021. Labour's Shadow Defence Secretary called it "a catastrophic failure of duty", while veterans' groups demand accountability.
As pressure mounts, the government faces difficult questions about how such a sensitive error could occur and what measures will be implemented to prevent future breaches.
