The Trump administration plans to implement a travel ban targeting countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan, based on security concerns. The new ban may include a broader range of countries than previously listed, with potential effects on Afghan refugees and a push for exemptions for Special Immigrant Visas. Full implementation could occur as soon as next week.
The Trump administration is preparing to impose a new travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, following a government review of security and vetting risks. Reports from Reuters indicate that additional countries may also be affected, although they remain unspecified. The New York Times has indicated that there exists a proposed “red” list of nations whose citizens would be prohibited from entering the United States.
During Trump’s previous term, the travel ban impacted countries such as Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen, which are expected to remain on the new list as well. If the proposed measures pass the review process, the ban could be implemented as early as next week, as reported by Reuters.
This directive is part of Trump’s broader immigration policy reform initiated at the commencement of his second term. In an October 2023 speech, he emphasized his intention to limit entry from countries he associates with security threats, specifically mentioning the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen.
On January 20, Trump issued an executive order mandating stricter security vetting for foreigners seeking to enter the U.S. This order required cabinet members to provide a list by March 21 of nations from which travel restrictions may be imposed due to inadequate vetting processes. Reports suggest that Afghanistan could be added to the travel ban list, affecting numerous Afghan citizens seeking resettlement as refugees or under Special Immigrant Visas.
The State Department office responsible for overseeing the resettlement of these individuals is pursuing an exemption from the travel ban for Special Immigrant Visa holders, although it remains uncertain whether this request will be approved. Furthermore, Pakistan is also considered for inclusion in the list of countries from which entry into the U.S. could be restricted.
In summary, the Trump administration is on the verge of imposing a travel ban on select Muslim-majority countries, notably Afghanistan and Pakistan. This initiative stems from a comprehensive review of national security risks associated with foreign entry. As preparations for this ban intensify, significant implications for citizens of affected nations, particularly Afghan refugees, are anticipated alongside ongoing immigration policy reforms.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
