The US government is contemplating a new travel ban possibly affecting Pakistan and Afghanistan. A report will be presented on March 12 regarding visa processes and vetting enhancements. Shawn Vandiver suggests immediate action is anticipated, while Pakistani officials maintain hope of exclusion from the list. The proposed ban could impact Afghan nationals awaiting resettlement, continuing a legacy of contentious immigration policy.
The United States government is contemplating additional travel restrictions, potentially including Pakistan and Afghanistan, as President Donald Trump aims to revive the previous travel ban from his first term. A report regarding this matter is expected to reach the White House on March 12, following the President’s directive in January for reviewing visa approval processes and enhancing vetting measures for visitors.
Shawn Vandiver, leader of the AfghanEvac coalition, indicated that immediate action from the Trump administration is anticipated, suggesting multiple countries could be identified for travel bans. There is hope that refugees may be exempt from these restrictions, but no final decision has been made as reports suggest both Pakistan and Afghanistan are candidates for full suspension.
Despite this, Pakistani officials remain hopeful that their nation will not be included in the restrictions due to positive remarks from US officials regarding Pakistan’s cooperation in detaining individuals linked to terrorism. President Trump specifically thanked Pakistan for aiding in the arrest of a suspect involved in a deadly bombing, which has cultivated a degree of optimism among Pakistani representatives.
The current proposal could significantly impact Afghan nationals cleared for resettlement in the US, who have been at risk due to their association with American forces during two decades of conflict. Furthermore, there are approximately 200,000 Afghans awaiting either resettlement or pending applications for Special Immigrant Visas, many of whom are currently located in Afghanistan or in other countries.
In addition, the Pakistani diaspora in the United States is notably large, with estimates exceeding one million residents, the majority of whom have settled in the country for better opportunities. Approximately 10,000 Pakistani students are enrolled in higher education institutions across the United States.
The context surrounding these potential travel bans recalls the chaotic introduction of the original travel restrictions enacted in 2017, which struck many with sudden impacts, such as stranded travelers and subsequent legal challenges. Thus, if enacted, these proposed travel bans may evoke similar disruption, with tens of thousands of individuals affected.
In summary, the potential expansion of the US travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan is being actively considered. The Trump administration’s focus on stringent vetting processes aims to address security risks associated with these nations. Although optimism exists among Pakistani officials, the implications for Afghan refugees remain severe, potentially affecting thousands of individuals in resettlement limbo. Historical precedents suggest that such travel bans may result in significant disruption and legal challenges.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
