The Trump administration is preparing a travel ban potentially affecting citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other Muslim-majority countries, based on security assessments. The ban follows a previous list and may be implemented soon, targeting nations that pose vetting risks. Afghan refugees and Special Immigrant Visa holders might be negatively impacted, while Pakistan could also be included in the restrictions.
The Donald Trump administration is reportedly preparing a new travel ban that could impact citizens from Muslim-majority countries, notably Pakistan and Afghanistan. This decision follows a government review assessing security and vetting risks associated with various nations. According to Reuters, while specific countries remain unidentified, the list may be more expansive than the initial one established during Trump’s first term.
A draft recommendation proposes a “red” list of countries whose citizens will be barred from entering the United States. During Trump’s previous term, the countries included on a similar list were Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen. It is anticipated that many of these nations will continue to face restrictions under the new policy.
If the review concludes favorably, the ban could be implemented as early as next week. This initiative forms part of Trump’s broader immigration enforcement strategy, initially announced at the commencement of his second term. In a speech delivered in October 2023, Trump signaled his intention to restrict entry from regions including the Gaza Strip and nations that pose security risks.
Furthermore, an executive order issued on January 20 mandated stronger security vetting for foreigners seeking U.S. entry to identify potential national security threats. As part of this directive, cabinet members were instructed to provide a list of countries requiring partial or full travel suspensions based on inadequate vetting.
Reports indicate the travel ban may also apply to Afghan citizens. Tens of thousands of Afghans have been approved for resettlement as refugees or recipients of Special Immigrant Visas. The State Department’s office managing their resettlement is reportedly advocating for an exemption from the travel ban for these visa holders, though the likelihood of acceptance remains uncertain. Additionally, Pakistan is considered another candidate for inclusion in the proposed restrictions.
The Trump administration’s potential travel ban could expand to significantly affect citizens from Pakistan and Afghanistan, along with other nations. This ban follows a government review aimed at enhancing national security through stringent vetting processes. Notably, the impact on Afghan refugees and Special Immigrant Visa holders remains contentious, with possible reviews and exemptions in discussion. Overall, the impending travel ban marks a continuation of Trump’s immigration policies prioritizing security concerns.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
