The US may soon extend its travel ban to Pakistan and Afghanistan, driven by national security reviews. A report is due at the White House on March 12, with hopes for refugee exemptions amid rising tensions. The ban could affect many waiting for resettlement as the situation remains precarious for these nations’ citizens.
The United States may soon extend its travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan, marking a potential revival of the controversial measures implemented during President Donald Trump’s first term. According to Shawn Vandiver, head of AfghanEvac, a report on this matter is expected to reach the White House on March 12. This development follows Mr. Trump’s January directive for a review of visa approvals and the enhancement of vetting processes for potential visitors.
Vandiver has indicated that action from the Trump administration is anticipated to be swift, noting several nations, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, could face full suspension of entry. Despite this, he expressed hope that refugees would be exempt from such restrictions, although a definitive decision has yet to be made.
Pakistan remains optimistic about avoidance of inclusion in the ban, especially after commendations from Mr. Trump regarding Islamabad’s assistance in apprehending a suspect linked to a deadly Kabul airport bombing. During a recent address, Mr. Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s role in capturing Mohammad Sharifullah, expressing gratitude for their cooperation.
In January, Mr. Trump’s executive order reiterated the need to identify countries with insufficient vetting measures, potentially leading to the suspension of admissions for their nationals. The situation remains fluid, with the Pakistan embassy in Washington declining immediate comment, and a State Department spokesperson affirming their commitment to national security through rigorous visa processes.
Reports indicate that based on a governmental review assessing security risks, a travel ban could potentially restrict citizens from Pakistan and Afghanistan from entering the US within days. This proposed ban is said to be more expansive compared to previous iterations, which initially affected primarily Muslim-majority countries.
The reconsideration of such travel restrictions has severe implications, with many Afghans, especially those who assisted US efforts during the two-decade-long war, facing increased risks of Taliban retaliation. An estimated 200,000 Afghans are currently awaiting resettlement approval, exacerbating an already critical situation.
In summary, the impending travel ban proposed by the Trump administration could significantly impact individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan. As the administration finalizes its review of national security risks, many Afghans and Pakistanis, particularly those awaiting resettlement as refugees or on Special Immigrant Visas, are filled with uncertainty. This development revisits themes from the previous administration’s policies and raises essential questions regarding the United States’ commitment to its allies and humanitarian responsibilities.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
