Trump Administration Prepares New Travel Ban Affecting Afghanistan and Pakistan
The Trump administration is poised to implement a new travel ban potentially barring citizens from Afghanistan and Pakistan, alongside other countries, following a government review of security risks. This initiative is part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy initiated by Trump during his second term, which could begin as early as next week.
The Donald Trump administration is preparing to enact a new travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries, particularly Afghanistan and Pakistan, in response to a government review focused on security and vetting concerns. Reports from Reuters suggest the final list may also encompass additional nations, though specifics are yet to be disclosed. A New York Times article indicated that a proposed “red” list has been drafted, potentially affecting more countries than previously included during Trump’s initial term.
During his prior administration, the travel ban affected several nations including Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen, which may remain on the revised list. This policy has undergone multiple revisions and was validated by the Supreme Court in 2018. Should the review lead to implementation, the travel ban may commence as early as next week, according to Reuters.
This directive forms part of an immigration enforcement strategy initiated by President Trump at the onset of his second term. In an address delivered in October 2023, he hinted at restricting entry from the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, and other areas deemed security threats. An executive order issued on January 20 mandated enhanced security vetting for foreigners seeking entry to the U.S. for national security assessment purposes.
The order instructed cabinet members to provide a list of countries, by March 21, from which travel should either be partially or fully suspended due to inadequate vetting and screening processes. Reports indicate Afghanistan’s potential inclusion in this travel ban may affect numerous Afghan citizens already prepared for resettlement in the U.S. as refugees or under Special Immigrant Visas, with the State Department seeking exemptions for these visa holders, although such exemptions appear unlikely.
Pakistan is also being considered for inclusion on the travel ban list, which could further impact individuals seeking entry into the United States from these nations. This news highlights ongoing concerns regarding the implications of the travel ban for affected citizens and refugee resettlement programs.
In summary, the Trump administration is in the process of initiating a new travel ban that may include Afghanistan and Pakistan, alongside other countries. This comes after a review of security and vetting procedures, impacting a significant number of individuals including refugees. The potential for exemptions remains uncertain, raising concerns about the broader implications of such policies for resettlement efforts.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
