The U.S. may soon add Pakistan and Afghanistan to a travel ban as President Trump seeks to revive criteria from his first term. Concerns abound for Afghan refugees who could be impacted by this new ban, which aims to enhance security vetting processes. Pakistani officials remain hopeful of exclusion, despite widespread uncertainty.
The United States may soon include Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new travel ban as President Donald Trump seeks to revive the previous Muslim ban from his first term. The White House is expected to receive a report on this matter on March 12, following the President’s directive in January to review visa approvals and enhance vetting processes for potential visitors. Shawn Vandiver, head of AfghanEvac, expressed concerns about various countries potentially facing a suspension, noting, “We hope that refugees would be exempt from this ban … but no final decision has been made yet.”
Despite apprehensions, Pakistani officials are optimistic regarding their exclusion from the travel ban list. This optimism stems from recent commendations from President Trump towards Pakistan’s role in the apprehension of Mohammad Sharifullah, a suspect involved in a significant bombing in Kabul. During a congressional address, Mr. Trump stated, “I want to thank especially the government of Pakistan for helping arrest this monster,” highlighting the importance of collaboration in security efforts.
Mr. Trump’s January executive order mandated the identification of countries with inadequate vetting and screening information, potentially leading to their nationals facing entry bans to the US. Sources indicate that the administration is finalizing an extensive travel ban, which may encompass Afghanistan and Pakistan, and could be enacted as soon as next week, following a review of each country’s security risks. This travel restriction might affect tens of thousands of Afghans cleared for resettlement in the United States due to their association with American efforts during the two-decade-long conflict in Afghanistan.
As of 2021, the US Census Bureau estimated the Pakistani community in the US at approximately 629,946, with newer estimates suggesting it may exceed one million. Furthermore, over 10,000 Pakistani students are pursuing higher education within the United States. Meanwhile, around 200,000 Afghans have been approved for resettlement or are awaiting US refugee and Special Immigrant Visa applications, having been left stranded in Afghanistan and neighboring countries since Trump’s 90-day freeze on refugee admissions was instated.
In summary, the potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new U.S. travel ban highlights ongoing security concerns and the complexities surrounding refugee admissions. While officials from Pakistan remain hopeful for an exemption, the situation remains precarious for many Afghans seeking resettlement after their sacrifices during the conflict. The ramifications of this potential ban could significantly impact Afghan and Pakistani communities in the United States and those seeking safety abroad.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
