The US may impose a travel ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan imminently, revisiting its original Muslim ban. Optimism persists in Pakistan about potential exemption, amid President Trump’s commendations for Pakistani cooperation in arrests related to terrorism. The proposed ban could significantly affect Afghan nationals seeking resettlement and has broader implications for those of Pakistani descent in the US.
The United States government may soon impose a travel ban on nationals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, potentially as early as next week. President Donald Trump is anticipated to extend his administration’s original Muslim ban, following a report due on March 12 regarding visa approval processes and enhanced vetting for visitors. Shawn Vandiver, who leads the AfghanEvac coalition, expressed concern about the situation, highlighting that while there is hope for refugee exemptions, a final decision remains pending.
Amidst discussions, Pakistani officials have demonstrated optimism about possibly being excluded from the ban, particularly influenced by recent commendations towards Islamabad for its cooperation in capturing a suspect involved in a suicide bombing at Kabul airport in 2021. Mr. Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s role during a Congressional address, stating, “I want to thank especially the government of Pakistan for helping arrest this monster,” offering gratitude to the families of the victims involved.
The executive order issued by Mr. Trump in January tasks relevant agencies with identifying countries that present significant vetting failures, justifying partial or total entry suspensions. A State Department spokesperson affirmed the commitment to national security but refrained from commenting on specific deliberations regarding the ban.
Reports suggest that the proposed travel ban may be broader than initial efforts made during Mr. Trump’s 2017 term. The former ban had already created chaos by rendering visas void for numerous travelers mid-flight and sparked legal challenges that required several amendments, culminating in a version upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.
A new ban could gravely affect the resettlement of Afghans pursuing refuge due to risks posed by the Taliban, with tens of thousands cleared for entry into the US. According to estimates, there are over one million residents of Pakistani descent in the United States, with more than 10,000 studying in higher education, highlighting the significance of any newfound restrictions on immigration.
In summary, a potential travel ban targeting nationals from Pakistan and Afghanistan may be implemented by the United States government in the forthcoming week. While Pakistani officials exhibit hope for exemption from the ban, the Trump administration continues discussions regarding enhanced vetting of visitors from certain countries. This proposed ban could significantly impact the resettlement process for Afghans and the Pakistani-American community.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
