The US may introduce a travel ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan, linked to President Trump’s review of visa processes. Concerns arise regarding Afghan refugees and visa applicants amid uncertainty about the specifics of the ban, while some Pakistani officials remain optimistic about exclusion. The proposed ban could significantly impact those awaiting resettlement in the US, highlighting ongoing immigration challenges tied to the war in Afghanistan.
The United States may soon impose a travel ban on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of President Donald Trump’s intent to possibly revive and expand the previous Muslim ban. A report discussing this potential ban is scheduled to be reviewed by the White House on March 12. Shawn Vandiver, leader of the coalition AfghanEvac, emphasized the urgency in addressing the situation for Afghan nationals awaiting permission to travel to the US.
Vandiver expressed concern regarding the impact of the anticipated travel ban, highlighting that “we hope that refugees would be exempt from this ban … but no final decision has been made yet.” However, he also stated that Pakistan, Afghanistan, and several other countries could potentially be classified as full suspension jurisdictions. Notably, some Pakistani officials remain hopeful that Pakistan will not be included in the travel ban due to recent positive remarks from senior US officials regarding Pakistan’s cooperation in security matters.
In a recent address, President Trump commended the government of Pakistan for their role in arresting Mohammad Sharifullah, linked to a deadly suicide bombing at Kabul airport in 2021. Furthermore, Trump’s January executive order mandated a review of countries deemed to have inadequate vetting procedures, potentially leading to restrictions on their nationals’ admissions.
Sources indicate that the Trump administration plans a travel ban affecting nationals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, which may be implemented as soon as next week. Notably, Trump’s prior travel ban in 2017 had considerable repercussions, stranding travelers and leading to significant disruptions at airports. The newly proposed measures could jeopardize the futures of tens of thousands of Afghans who are awaiting resettlement in the US due to risks associated with their past employment with the US during the extended conflict in Afghanistan.
Recent estimates suggest that approximately 629,946 US residents identified as of Pakistani descent in 2021, with newer figures indicating a population exceeding one million. Additionally, over 10,000 Pakistani students are currently enrolled in higher education institutions across the United States. Approximately 200,000 Afghans have been cleared for resettlement or hold pending visa applications, many of whom are currently experiencing delays due to policies enacted by the Trump administration.
In summary, the potential imposition of a travel ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan reflects President Trump’s renewed focus on national security and immigration policy. While some officials express optimism about Pakistan’s exclusion, the move could severely impact many Afghan refugees and visa applicants, further complicating an already tense situation following decades of conflict. The proposed actions underscore the ongoing challenges faced by both nations in relation to US immigration policy and national security considerations.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
