The US might expand its travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan as President Trump prepares for a report due on March 12. Concerns are growing over how this may affect Afghan refugees. Initial optimism from Pakistani officials exists due to US praise, but ambiguity remains regarding exemptions. Thousands of Afghan nationals could face challenges in relocating amidst this potential ban, reflecting historical complexities tied to immigration and national security considerations.
The United States is considering extending a travel ban to include nationals from Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of a broader initiative by President Donald Trump. A report regarding this potential ban is expected to be presented to the White House on March 12. The discussion follows Trump’s directive in January to review visa processes and implement “enhanced vetting” for visitors from certain countries, according to Shawn Vandiver from AfghanEvac.
Vandiver expressed concerns over the implications for Afghan refugees, noting that while it is hoped they might be exempt from the ban, no definitive decision has been made. The anticipated travel ban could impact various countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, identified as candidates for full admission suspensions. A Pakistani official indicated optimism about the country’s exclusion from this list due to recent US commendations of Pakistan’s cooperation in safety matters.
In a recent congressional address, Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s role in capturing a suspect linked to a deadly Kabul airport attack, saying, “I want to thank especially the government of Pakistan for helping arrest this monster.” This follows Trump’s January executive order that instructed agencies to identify countries with insufficient vetting information, potentially justifying a travel ban.
Recent reports suggest a new travel ban could be finalized soon, affecting Afghan and Pakistani nationals seeking entry into the US. The Trump administration’s first travel ban in 2017 had a significant impact, stranding travelers and creating chaos at airports. The new restrictions may affect thousands of Afghans previously authorized for resettlement, particularly those at risk for Taliban retaliation due to their association with US efforts during the two-decade conflict.
The US Census Bureau data indicated a significant Pakistani population residing in the US, which has grown to over a million, including more than 10,000 students currently studying in the country. The refugee situation remains dire for many Afghans, with around 200,000 facing uncertainty in Afghanistan and surrounding countries due to prior US policies limiting admissions since January 20, 2021.
The potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new US travel ban highlights ongoing tensions regarding immigration policy under the Trump administration. While discussions around the ban continue, implications for Afghan and Pakistani nationals, especially refugees, could be severe. The government’s handling of vetting and national safety remains a core focus, amid rising concerns about the humanitarian impact of such measures. The situation continues to evolve, with a report due soon that may clarify the future for many individuals awaiting resettlement.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
