The Trump administration plans a new travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, due to security and vetting concerns. A ‘red’ list of nations may be proposed, and the ban could be effective as soon as next week. This policy aligns with Trump’s broader immigration crackdown, posing challenges for Afghan and Pakistani citizens seeking entry into the U.S.
The Donald Trump administration is preparing to impose a new travel ban specifically targeting Muslim-majority nations, including Pakistan and Afghanistan. This decision stems from a government review evaluating security risks and the vetting processes of various countries. Reuters has reported that while the finalized list of banned countries is still uncertain, it may encompass additional nations beyond those initially specified in Trump’s first term.
A draft recommendation has suggested the creation of a “red” list, featuring countries whose citizens would be prohibited from entering the United States. Previously, Trump’s travel ban affected nations such as Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen—all of which are likely to remain on the updated list. The legality of this policy has already been examined by the Supreme Court, which upheld it in 2018.
According to Reuters, should the government review proceed without complications, the ban could take effect as early as next week. This directive falls within Trump’s broader immigration enforcement strategy that he recommenced following his second term’s inception. His October 2023 speech hinted at restricting entry not only from Gaza but also from Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, highlighting national security concerns.
In an executive order issued on January 20, Trump mandated a more rigorous vetting process for foreign nationals wishing to enter the U.S. This initiative called for cabinet members to present a list of countries from which travel should be limited or halted entirely, based on inadequacies in their vetting procedures. Reports indicate that the new ban may include Afghan citizens, further impacting tens of thousands of Afghans approved for resettlement as refugees or holders of Special Immigrant Visas.
The State Department is seeking an exemption for these Special Immigrant Visa holders from the proposed travel ban; however, this exemption is not considered likely to be granted. Similarly, Pakistan is anticipated to be among the countries whose citizens may face entry restrictions into the United States.
In summary, the Trump administration is poised to reinstate and possibly expand the travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries, with significant implications for citizens of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The policy, which has undergone multiple iterations, aims to enhance national security through stricter vetting. While exceptions may be sought for specific visa holders, the overall direction remains towards greater immigration restrictions, with implementation expected imminently.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
