A potential new travel ban by President Trump could restrict Afghans and Pakistanis from entering the U.S. as soon as next week. This decision follows a security review that may affect tens of thousands of Afghans eligible for resettlement. The move mirrors previous travel restrictions faced during Trump’s first term, with advocates urging timely travel for those in possession of valid U.S. visas.

A potential new travel ban by President Donald Trump may soon prevent individuals from Afghanistan and Pakistan from entering the United States, as reported by three anonymous sources. This decision stems from a governmental review evaluating security and vetting risks associated with various countries. It is anticipated that the ban may take effect as early as next week, with the possibility of additional countries being included in the restrictions.

This move recalls the previous travel ban during Trump’s initial term that affected travelers from seven predominantly Muslim nations. This earlier policy was ultimately affirmed by the Supreme Court in 2018 after undergoing several modifications. Former President Joe Biden annulled the ban in 2021, characterizing it as “a stain on our national conscience.”

The impending ban may have significant implications for tens of thousands of Afghans who are eligible for resettlement in the U.S. as refugees or Special Immigrant Visa holders, particularly those at risk of Taliban retribution for their aid to the United States during two decades of conflict in Afghanistan. Trump’s executive order on January 20 mandated enhanced security scrutiny for foreigners seeking U.S. entry to identify potential national security threats.

Cabinet members were instructed to provide by March 12 a list of nations for partial or total travel suspension due to inadequate vetting. Both Afghanistan and Pakistan are expected to be recommended for a travel ban. However, the departments responsible for this initiative did not provide immediate comments.

One source emphasized that Afghans approved for U.S. resettlement undergo rigorous screening processes, making them exceptionally vetted compared to other populations. The State Department’s Afghan Relocation Efforts office is pushing for exemptions for Special Immigrant Visa holders, though such exemptions appear unlikely at this time.

After the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in August 2021, the group is now facing a challenge from Islamic State affiliates. Concurrently, Pakistan is dealing with its own violent extremist factions. Trump’s immigration initiative, part of a broader enforcement strategy, was outlined in a recent speech where he indicated intentions to restrict entry from several regions perceived as security threats.

Shawn VanDiver, president of AfghanEvac, urged those holding valid U.S. visas to travel promptly amidst rumors of the upcoming travel restrictions. He noted that the potential ban could have severe repercussions for Afghan visa holders who have been awaiting relocation. Currently, about 200,000 Afghans have either been authorized for U.S. resettlement or are awaiting action on their visa applications, while many remain stranded in Afghanistan and surrounding regions, including around 20,000 in Pakistan.

In conclusion, the prospective travel ban poses serious challenges for Afghans and Pakistanis seeking entry into the United States. This policy recalls past restrictions established during Trump’s first term, significantly impacting individuals who have already undergone extensive vetting processes. The urgency to act for those holding U.S. visas has been highlighted by advocates amidst looming restrictions, revealing the complex intersections of security, immigration, and humanitarian efforts in the current landscape.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

Related posts:

Impending Travel Ban Under Trump May Restrict Afghan and Pakistani Entry into the U.S. Potential Travel Ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan: Implications for Afghan Refugees Proposed Travel Ban By Trump Could Restrict Entry for Afghans and Pakistanis PM Thanks Trump for Acknowledging Pakistan’s Anti-Terror Efforts