Potential U.S. Travel Ban Could Impact Pakistan and Afghanistan

The U.S. may extend travel bans to Pakistan and Afghanistan as President Trump reviews visa approval processes. A report expected by March 12 will outline the implications for those seeking asylum or resettlement. The travel restrictions could significantly impact Afghan and Pakistani nationals, particularly refugees. Cautious optimism from Pakistan officials continues due to recent positive remarks from U.S. officials.

The United States may impose a new travel ban on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, as President Donald Trump contemplates expanding the previous Muslim ban. The report on this potential action is anticipated by March 12. Shawn Vandiver, leader of AfghanEvac, expressed concern regarding the impact on Afghans awaiting travel to the U.S. and emphasized the hope that refugees would be exempt.

Pakistani officials remain cautiously optimistic that their nation will not be included in the ban, partly due to recent commendations from U.S. officials concerning Pakistan’s cooperation in apprehending Mohammad Sharifullah, implicated in a deadly bombing at Kabul airport. Trump’s executive order in January mandates agencies to evaluate nations based on their vetting and screening capabilities.

Anonymous sources suggest that as early as next week, the U.S. government could announce a travel ban affecting people from Afghanistan and Pakistan, aligning it with a broader review of security concerns. Historical context highlights that Trump’s first travel ban in 2017 caused significant disarray for travelers.

The impending ban could hinder tens of thousands of Afghans, who qualify for U.S. resettlement, especially those at risk from Taliban retaliation. Recent statistics indicate there are over a million residents of Pakistani descent in the U.S., with approximately 10,000 enrolled in higher education institutions. Concurrently, around 200,000 Afghans have received approvals for U.S. resettlement under pending applications, many of whom are currently stranded due to previous policy freezes.

In summary, the potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new U.S. travel ban raises significant concerns about the impact on refugees and individuals seeking resettlement. Ongoing evaluations by the Trump administration regarding security and vetting processes will determine how many individuals could be affected. The situation remains fluid, and advocacy for the protection of vulnerable populations, especially those who assisted the U.S. in Afghanistan, is critical.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com