Potential Expansion of US Travel Ban to Include Pakistan and Afghanistan
The US is considering adding Pakistan and Afghanistan to an impending travel ban as President Trump seeks to expand the original Muslim ban. A report is due on March 12, and while some officials hope for refugee exemptions, many Afghans may face significant barriers to resettlement. Pakistani officials remain hopeful for their country’s exclusion from the potential ban amid recent bipartisan commendations from Trump.
The United States may soon impose a travel ban on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, as President Donald Trump considers expanding the existing Muslim ban from his first term. A report discussing this matter is anticipated by March 12, following Trump’s January directive for a review of visa processes and enhanced vetting for potential visitors. Shawn Vandiver, leader of AfghanEvac, expressed confidence that action would be taken quickly, noting that several countries are on the list for entry suspension, though there is hope for refugee exemptions.
Despite the grim prospect of the travel ban, Pakistani officials are cautiously optimistic that Pakistan might not be included. This optimism stems from Trump’s commendations of Islamabad’s assistance in apprehending Mohammad Sharifullah, accused of masterminding a deadly 2021 suicide bombing. Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s role in capturing the suspect, highlighting the positive relationship between the two nations in recent communications.
President Trump has authorized agencies to assess global countries for deficiencies in vetting processes, potentially leading to a full or partial ban on nationals from specific countries. Reports suggest the new ban could be more extensive than the original that included several Middle Eastern countries. The implications of such a ban are significant, as it could impact tens of thousands of Afghans eligible for resettlement due to their service to the US during the lengthy conflict in Afghanistan.
The travel ban may jeopardize resettlement opportunities for over 200,000 Afghans, currently stranded due to a previous freeze on refugee admissions initiated by Trump. Additionally, it is estimated that there are over one million Pakistani-Americans, including over 10,000 Pakistani students currently pursuing education in the US, emphasizing the potential broad-reaching consequences of such a policy.
In summary, the United States may soon establish a travel ban affecting nationals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, reflecting a potential expansion of the original Muslim ban. While there is some optimism from Pakistani officials regarding their exclusion, the implications for Afghan nationals seeking resettlement could be profound. As the situation develops, it will require careful monitoring to understand its full impact on immigration and refugee processes.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
