Trump Administration Plans New Travel Ban Impacting Afghan and Pakistani Citizens
The Trump administration is preparing a new travel ban targeting primarily Muslim-majority countries, notably Afghanistan and Pakistan, due to security concerns. A proposed ‘red’ list could bar citizens from these nations from entering the U.S. The ban may be implemented as early as next week and also seeks to manage the resettlement of Afghan nationals under Special Immigrant Visas.
The Trump administration is preparing to implement a new travel ban affecting primarily Muslim-majority countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, as part of its immigration policies. A government review aims to identify countries based on security and vetting risks. Reports indicate that additional countries might also be affected, although specifics remain unclear.
According to the New York Times, a proposed ‘red’ list of countries, whose citizens will be barred from entering the U.S., has emerged from these discussions. Previously, during Trump’s first term, similar measures targeted countries such as Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen, which are likely to remain on the list.
If the review concludes positively, the new travel ban could take effect as early as next week. This directive is part of a broader strategy initiated by Trump to crack down on immigration, which he alluded to during an October 2023 speech. He indicated a focus on restricting immigration from regions perceived as security threats, including the Gaza Strip and several Middle Eastern nations.
On January 20, Trump signed an executive order demanding enhanced security vetting for foreigners attempting to enter the country. This order instructed various cabinet officials to compile a list by March 21 of countries potentially facing travel suspensions due to inadequate screening processes.
Reports suggest that citizens from Afghanistan may be especially affected, notably those who’ve been cleared to resettle in the U.S. as refugees or Special Immigrant Visa holders. The State Department’s office overseeing their resettlement is seeking exemptions concerning the travel ban, though the likelihood of such exemptions being granted is uncertain. Additionally, Pakistan is also mentioned as a possible candidate for the travel restrictions.
In summary, the Trump administration’s upcoming travel ban may significantly affect citizens from Afghanistan and Pakistan as part of a strategic immigration policy aimed at enhancing national security. With a proposed ‘red’ list potentially barring entry for various Muslim-majority countries, the implications for Afghan and Pakistani nationals, particularly those holding Special Immigrant Visas, remain uncertain. This development signals a continuation of rigorous immigration controls, echoing policies established in the previous term.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
