On Jan. 28, 140 Afghan semifinalists hoping for a chance to study at U.S. universities through the Fulbright Student Program received devastating news via email.

Citing “significant barriers impeding our ability to provide a safe exchange experience,” the State Department canceled the Afghan Fulbright program. And not just for current semifinalists, but also for future cohorts. Semifinalist and journalist Mokhtar Yasa told the Washington Examiner it was the “most disappointing and crushing email in [his] life.” Yasa believes the State Department provided “no clear and convincing reason” for its “unfair and unjust” decision.