The leak originated in February 2022 when an individual at UK Special Forces inadvertently sent over 30,000 resettlement applications to a non-government email instead of the intended 150. The issue was uncovered in August 2023, following a Facebook post from an Afghan man threatening to release more identifying information. In response, the Ministry of Defence secured a gagging order to protect nearly 19,000 Afghans who collaborated with British forces, fearing repercussions from the Taliban. These events led to the establishment of the Afghanistan Response Route to assist 7,000 affected individuals with their relocation to the UK. Despite potential claims for compensation, the government remains cautious about voluntary offers for financial reparation, marking the unfolding crisis as a pivotal moment for national security and international diplomacy.
**Parliamentary Inquiry Initiated Following Afghan Data Breach Crisis**
**Parliamentary Inquiry Initiated Following Afghan Data Breach Crisis**
A comprehensive investigation has been launched by the Intelligence and Security Committee in response to a significant data leak impacting Afghan allies and British military personnel.
The Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) of Parliament has embarked on an inquiry into a major data breach that compromised the identities of thousands of Afghan nationals and British military officials. The breach came to light after a super-injunction prevented the ISC from being briefed until recently. Lord Beamish, Chairman of the committee, is demanding immediate access to all relevant intelligence documents for thorough review. The Ministry of Defence expressed support for the committee's efforts to scrutinize the situation, emphasizing accountability for past handling of the incident.
