Potential Travel Ban on Afghanistan and Pakistan: What We Know

Reports indicate that President Donald Trump is considering a full travel ban on individuals from Afghanistan and Pakistan, which could take effect as early as next week. This move, aimed at improving security protocols, may significantly impact Afghans eligible for resettlement under refugee or Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs), currently facing Taliban threats. The precise details of the ban are yet to be officially confirmed.

There are reports indicating that Afghanistan and Pakistan may be subjected to full travel bans by the United States. Individuals from these countries could face entry restrictions as early as next week, as President Donald Trump contemplates this new travel ban. Sources suggest that the ban is part of a strategy aimed at improving security and vetting processes associated with specific nations.

The potential travel ban could have significant implications for many Afghan individuals cleared for resettlement in the US under refugee or Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). These individuals are at heightened risk of Taliban retaliation due to their support for US military operations during the two-decade-long conflict in Afghanistan. An executive order from Trump in January initiated a review of foreign nationals seeking entry into the US to identify security risks through enhanced vetting.

This proposed travel restriction aligns with Trump’s comprehensive immigration strategy announced in October 2023, targeting countries considered security threats, including Gaza, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen. The anticipated inclusion of Afghanistan and Pakistan in the travel ban has not received official confirmation from relevant US departments, including State, Justice, and Homeland Security.

Notably, Afghans authorized for resettlement are reported to undergo extensive screening, which makes them evaluated more thoroughly than many other populations globally. Despite the stringent vetting process, the State Department reportedly seeks an exemption for SIV applicants, but such relief remains uncertain. Concurrently, preparations continue for the closure of the Afghan relocation office scheduled by April.

The situation in Afghanistan remains unstable following the Taliban’s control over Kabul since the US military’s withdrawal in August 2021, exacerbated by the threats posed by ISIS’s regional factions. In light of these developments, Shawn VanDiver, the head of AfghanEvac, has recommended that individuals holding valid US visas travel promptly to avoid potential complications. Currently, an estimated 200,000 Afghans are either cleared for resettlement or have pending applications for refugee status or SIVs. Many of these individuals are trapped in Afghanistan or other nations, including around 20,000 in Pakistan, following Trump’s January orders that inhibited refugee admissions and foreign aid necessary for their travel.

In summary, reports suggest that the United States may soon implement a full travel ban on Afghanistan and Pakistan, significantly impacting thousands seeking resettlement. The ongoing security review stems from an executive order to enhance the vetting process for foreign nationals. Despite stringent vetting, exemptions for Afghan SIV holders may not be guaranteed, adding further concerns as many continue to remain stranded. Stakeholders urge prompt action for individuals holding valid US visas.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com