The US may expand its travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan, with a report due on March 12. This move follows a review of visa processes prompted by President Trump. Those affected could include many Afghans seeking asylum due to Taliban threats. The situation remains fluid as officials await a final decision.
The United States may impose a new travel ban on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan as early as next week, which could extend the restrictions from President Donald Trump’s previous administration. According to Shawn Vandiver, head of AfghanEvac, the White House is set to receive an assessment on March 12 regarding the potential ban. Following a review of visa approval processes, this action aims to enhance vetting measures for individuals seeking entry into the United States.
Vandiver expressed concerns about the implications of the ban, stating, “We hope that refugees would be exempt from this ban … but no final decision has been made yet.” Numerous countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, may be listed for full suspension under the proposed ban. Despite these developments, a source noted that Pakistani officials remain hopeful for their country’s exclusion, particularly in light of recent praise from Trump regarding Pakistan’s cooperation in apprehending a suspect linked to a major bombing incident.
Trump publicly acknowledged Pakistan’s role in the arrest during a Congressional address, stating, “I want to thank especially the government of Pakistan for helping arrest this monster.” His instructions in January emphasized the need for identifying countries with insufficient vetting processes that may warrant restrictions on their nationals. Meanwhile, the State Department declined to comment on internal discussions but reaffirmed its commitment to national security through a rigorous visa process.
Reports indicate that the impending travel ban could have significant consequences for many Afghans approved for resettlement in the US, particularly those at risk of Taliban retribution for their affiliations with US forces. It is estimated that over 200,000 Afghans have pending refugee or Special Immigrant Visa applications, with many stranded across various countries since admissions were halted on January 20. Additionally, there is a notable population of over a million Pakistani nationals residing in the US, including thousands of students currently enrolled in American educational institutions.
In summary, the potential expansion of the US travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan may occur imminently, following continued scrutiny of security and vetting processes. The outcomes of this ban could profoundly impact thousands of individuals who have sought refuge in the United States, emphasizing the delicate balance between national security and humanitarian obligations. As developments unfold, stakeholders remain vigilant regarding the administration’s final decisions.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
