Trump Administration’s Plans to Expand Travel Bans Include Afghanistan

The Trump administration is finalizing a broader travel ban that would restrict entry for citizens of various countries, including a proposed new addition, Afghanistan. This initiative builds on previous bans and has raised urgent concerns among advocacy groups for affected individuals.
The Trump administration is preparing to implement a new travel ban that may extend beyond the previous measures introduced during the President’s first term. Reports indicate that a draft recommendation is circulating, which proposes creating a “red” list of countries from which citizens could be barred from entry into the United States. This list primarily includes nations previously affected under earlier travel bans.
Countries expected to be on the proposed ban list include Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen. Furthermore, there are plans to add Afghanistan to this list, which would impose outright restrictions on Afghan citizens wishing to enter the U.S.
In reaction to these developments, Shawn VanDiver, a leader of a nonprofit aiding Afghans who collaborated with U.S. forces, expressed concerns over the impending restrictions. His organization issued an emergency alert advising Afghans holding valid visas who are outside the U.S. to return immediately, as Reuters corroborated the likelihood of a complete travel ban affecting Afghanistan.
The Trump administration’s initiative to revive and expand travel bans could significantly impact citizens of several countries, with Afghanistan being a notable addition. The implications of these restrictions are severe, particularly for those previously allied with U.S. forces. This matter remains sensitive as further deliberations continue within the administration.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com