The U.S. has revoked all visas for South Sudanese citizens, barring future issuance until the government accepts repatriated individuals. This measure is a response to ongoing failures by South Sudan to facilitate timely returns, amid its humanitarian crisis and escalating armed conflict. The U.S. Embassy has also suspended operations due to the situation.
On Saturday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the immediate revocation of visas for South Sudanese passport holders, including the prohibition of issuing any new visas. This decision is due to the South Sudanese transitional government’s failure to timely accept the return of its repatriated citizens. The U.S. Department of State emphasized that South Sudan must cease taking advantage of U.S. hospitality.
The statement from the Department of State highlighted the importance of enforcing immigration laws for national security and public safety, underscoring that all countries are required to accept the return of their citizens promptly. They further indicated that these restrictions could be reassessed once South Sudan demonstrates full cooperation with repatriation efforts.
Currently, South Sudan is experiencing escalating armed conflict, mass displacement, and severe food insecurity, which has pushed the nation to the brink of civil war. In light of these issues, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended all operations, including consular services, on April 22, 2023, affecting visa and passport processing.
This action aligns with recent trends under the previous administration, which ended deportation protections for many Venezuelans in the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security disclosed plans to revoke Temporary Protected Status for over 300,000 individuals, reflecting a significant shift in immigration policy. The Trump administration reportedly deported over 100,000 illegal migrants since taking office.
As of yet, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for South Sudan has not provided any comments regarding the U.S. decision. Additionally, United Nations representatives related to South Sudan declined to comment on this matter, illustrating a cautious diplomatic atmosphere amid ongoing crises.
In summary, the U.S. has revoked visas for South Sudanese citizens due to the transitional government’s failure to accept repatriated individuals. This action underscores the emphasis on enforcing immigration laws, particularly concerning national security. The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan remains critical, reflecting a dire need for governmental cooperation to facilitate returns. The situation illustrates a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy amid escalating international challenges.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
