The U.S. may soon implement a travel ban on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, as President Trump seeks to extend the previous Muslim ban. Advocacy for refugee exemptions is ongoing, with many awaiting resettlement under threat from the Taliban. The situation remains fluid, with significant implications for affected individuals and their families.
The United States is contemplating a potential travel ban on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, which may be implemented as early as next week. President Donald Trump aims to extend the controversial Muslim ban initiated during his first term. As reported by Shawn Vandiver of AfghanEvac, the White House is expected to receive a report concerning this matter on March 12, following Mr. Trump’s directive in January to review visa processes and enhance visitor vetting procedures.
Mr. Vandiver expressed concerns regarding the impending ban on social media after discussions with members of Congress, advocating for the inclusion of refugee exemptions. He stated, “We expect [the Trump administration] to take action very quickly. There are several countries on the list, the nationals of which will not be able to come here.” Though Pakistani officials remain hopeful of exclusion from the ban, they are concerned about its implications for Afghan refugees awaiting resettlement in the United States.
The Trump administration’s plans reflect a broader strategy aimed at identifying nations with insufficient vetting protocols. His January executive order requested agencies to assess countries for considerations regarding travel bans. Official statements from the Pakistan embassy were unavailable, and the State Department declined to comment on the internal deliberations surrounding these potential restrictions.
Reports indicate that the new ban could affect up to tens of thousands of Afghans eligible for resettlement in the U.S. under various visa programs. Many of these individuals face danger from the Taliban due to their association with U.S. efforts over the past two decades. In 2021, approximately 629,946 residents of Pakistani descent were documented in the U.S., and the current number may exceed one million due to recent migrations. Moreover, around 200,000 Afghans have been approved for U.S. resettlement or possess pending visa applications, with many stranded in Afghanistan and Pakistan since Trump imposed a freeze on refugee admissions and foreign aid in January.
In summary, the potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new U.S. travel ban reflects ongoing concerns about security and vetting processes. This move could severely impact Afghans seeking refuge due to their past associations with U.S. military efforts. Both Pakistani and Afghan officials are navigating the implications of this anticipated ban, advocating for exceptions for refugees amid rising uncertainties. The outcomes of the forthcoming report are of significant importance to many families awaiting resettlement.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
