U.S. Visa Program Review May Include Afghanistan in New Travel Ban
The U.S. State Department is reviewing visa programs in anticipation of a possible travel ban including Afghanistan. Concerns are raised for Afghans who aided U.S. efforts, potentially impacting their resettlement. Advocates urge action to safeguard these individuals as implications of a ban may have severe consequences.
The United States State Department has confirmed it is undertaking a comprehensive review of all visa programs, which coincides with speculation of an imminent travel ban potentially including Afghanistan, as reported by a knowledgeable U.S. official. The official noted that while the ban may be announced as early as next week, final decisions regarding the countries to be affected or the timing are not yet established.
An executive order issued by President Donald Trump on January 20 mandates cabinet members, including the Secretary of State, to compile a list of countries needing additional vetting due to insufficient screening information. This review is to be completed within a 60-day period following the order, emphasized a department spokesperson, who indicated that details about deliberations would not be disclosed.
A White House representative clarified that no decisions have been finalized regarding potential travel bans and stated that misinformation regarding the matter is being circulated. During Trump’s first term, he implemented a travel ban affecting seven predominantly Muslim nations, which faced legal challenges until being overturned by President Biden in 2021.
Should Afghanistan be included in the travel ban, it would significantly affect many Afghan nationals who collaborated with the U.S. during its military operations over two decades. These individuals may be excluded from admission to the U.S., adding to the challenges faced by tens of thousands already in limbo due to other Trump-era policies that curtailed refugee admissions and suspended aid for Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders.
On Wednesday, AfghanEvac—a coalition aimed at securing safety for Afghan allies—urged all Afghan nationals with valid U.S. visas to travel immediately, citing credible warnings about an imminent travel ban. Their message detailed the potential consequences for Afghan visa holders awaiting relocation to the United States.
The International Refugee Admissions Project (IRAP) also expressed serious concerns regarding a new travel ban, emphasizing that numerous individuals have waited years for visa processing while remaining in perilous situations. They argued that a travel ban would endanger lives by preventing refugees from achieving safety and cautioned about the immediate and enduring consequences for these vulnerable populations.
In summary, the U.S. State Department is reviewing visa programs amidst the possibility of a new travel ban that may include Afghanistan. This development could jeopardize the safety of Afghan nationals who have cooperated with U.S. efforts in Afghanistan. Organizations advocating for their rights are voicing opposition to any bans, emphasizing the dangers faced by these individuals. The situation requires close monitoring as it evolves.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
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