Potential U.S. Travel Ban Expansion Includes Pakistan and Afghanistan

The U.S. may include Pakistan and Afghanistan in an expanded travel ban as President Trump reviews visa processes and security risks. Officials express hope for refugee exemptions, but many Afghans face uncertainty following a freeze on admissions. Trump’s previous travel bans have caused chaos and legal challenges, potentially affecting resettlement for those at risk due to Taliban violence.

The United States may soon impose a travel ban on citizens from Pakistan and Afghanistan as President Donald Trump seeks to expand the earlier Muslim ban from his initial term. The White House is expected to receive an official report on this matter on March 12, as part of Trump’s directive to review visa processes and enhance screening for visitors. Shawn Vandiver, leader of the AfghanEvac coalition, indicated that specific countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, are under consideration for full travel suspensions.

Despite the potential of the travel ban, there remains some optimism among Pakistani officials regarding their country’s exemption, particularly following Trump’s commendations of Pakistan’s assistance in capturing Mohammad Sharifullah, a suspect involved in the Kabul airport bombing. During a recent congressional address, Trump expressed gratitude towards Pakistan, labeling it a “momentous day” for the victims’ families of the bombing.

Trump’s January executive order mandated federal agencies to identify countries that might warrant a suspension of entrance based on inadequate vetting and security risks. While the State Department refrained from commenting on specific deliberations, reports from multiple sources suggest that a more expansive travel ban is nearing finalization, potentially affecting many Afghans approved for resettlement due to their prior assistance to U.S. forces.

Historically, Trump’s administration’s travel ban implementation has had chaotic implications, notably stranding travelers mid-journey. The previous ban targeted nationals from several predominantly Muslim countries and had faced significant legal challenges. The new proposal could severely impact over 200,000 Afghans eligible for resettlement amidst ongoing Taliban threats, which has left many stranded in Afghanistan and elsewhere since Trump’s recent immigration freeze.

In summary, the potential expansion of the U.S. travel ban could significantly affect citizens from Pakistan and Afghanistan. While officials express hope for exemptions, particularly for refugees, the reality of increased security and vetting protocols looms. The implications of past travel restrictions continue to be a matter of concern, as thousands await resettlement amidst uncertainty.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com