The Trump administration may impose a travel ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan, citing security concerns over inadequate screening processes. This follows a similar ban from 2017 targeting primarily Muslim-majority countries. The potential ban could hinder asylum efforts for individuals escaping political crises in Afghanistan. An official update is expected by March 21.
The Trump administration could impose a travel ban on both Pakistan and Afghanistan by the end of March, according to sources who spoke with Reuters. This move mirrors the controversial travel ban from 2017, which primarily affected Muslim-majority countries, dubbed the “Muslim ban.” The original ban included countries like Iraq, Iran, Libya, and others.
The rationale cited for the current potential ban is the alleged lack of proper “screening” processes in both countries, which may result in either a partial or complete travel ban. Sources suggest that Afghanistan and Pakistan are likely candidates for a full ban; however, the specifics of the “screening” concerns remain unclear.
Afghanistan is currently experiencing significant political instability, particularly following the U.S. troop withdrawal in 2020. With the Taliban now in control, activists are assisting at-risk citizens in fleeing and seeking asylum in the U.S. Although travel might still occur under specific circumstances, the new ban would severely obstruct asylum efforts for many individuals.
Prior to Trump taking office, there were speculations that countries like India and China could also be included in a travel ban. An official announcement regarding these developments is anticipated on March 21.
The potential travel ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan represents a continuation of the Trump administration’s controversial policies aimed at restricting entry from certain nations. Concerns over insufficient screening are cited as the rationale, while the ongoing political crises in these countries complicate asylum efforts for many at-risk individuals. Further details are expected to emerge in a formal announcement on March 21.
Original Source: www.outlookindia.com
