Potential Expansion of US Travel Ban to Include Pakistan and Afghanistan
The U.S. may soon add Pakistan and Afghanistan to its travel ban, reviving the Muslim ban initiated during Trump’s first term. Concerns arise regarding the impact on Afghan refugees and the status of Pakistani nationals, despite some officials remaining optimistic about exclusion from the list.
The United States government may soon impose travel restrictions on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of an expansion of the previous Muslim ban initiated during President Donald Trump’s first term. Reports suggest that the White House will discuss this matter extensively as it has ordered a review of visa processes and enhanced vetting measures.
Shawn Vandiver, head of AfghanEvac, expressed concerns regarding the potential implications of the new restrictions. He indicated that the administration would likely make decisions quickly, noting that various countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, could be added to those facing full suspension of entry. Vandiver remarked on March 5 that while they hope refugees might be exempt, no final decision has been granted yet.
Optimism remains among Pakistani officials as they hope to avoid inclusion on the travel ban list, especially following positive comments from President Trump regarding Pakistan’s cooperation in detaining a suspect linked to a deadly bombing. Trump praised the Pakistani government for their assistance in apprehending Mohammad Sharifullah, highlighting this collaboration.
The new restrictions under consideration potentially present significant challenges for tens of thousands of Afghans who have been approved for resettlement in the U.S. due to their perilous positions post-U.S. military withdrawal. The earlier Muslim ban of 2017 disrupted the travel plans of many and has had lasting legal implications.
Currently, approximately 200,000 Afghans are either approved for relocation or have pending applications for Special Immigrant Visas. This situation is further exacerbated by a recent freeze on refugee admissions and foreign aid as ordered by President Trump, leaving many in precarious positions.
The proposed extension of the travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan could significantly impact many individuals seeking refuge or resettlement in the United States. As the administration reviews its policy responses, concerns remain for those affected, particularly the Afghan allies awaiting their journey to safety. The collaboration between the U.S. and Pakistani authorities may play a crucial role in shaping the final decision regarding the inclusion of Pakistan on this list.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
