Potential US Travel Ban Expansion: Pakistan and Afghanistan in Focus
President Donald Trump may expand the US travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan, potentially affecting thousands awaiting resettlement due to national security concerns. Despite Pakistani officials expressing optimism, many Afghans with pending visa applications remain in precarious situations.
Concerns have emerged regarding the potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new US travel ban initiated by President Donald Trump. The administration aims to expand the previous Muslim ban from his first term, with a report expected soon that will inform the decision. Shawn Vandiver, leader of AfghanEvac, indicated that restrictions on nationals from these countries could take effect as early as next week, despite hopes that refugees would be exempt.
Optimism exists among Pakistani officials about not being included in the travel ban list, especially following President Trump’s commendation of Pakistan’s role in apprehending a key suspect involved in the Kabul airport suicide bombing. Acknowledging Pakistan’s cooperation, Trump remarked that it was a significant day for the affected families. Conversely, Trump’s executive order seeks to evaluate countries with inadequate vetting processes and screen risks potentially affecting US national security.
A potential travel ban could further complicate the resettlement of approximately 200,000 Afghans who have garnered approval for refugee status or Special Immigrant Visas due to their association with US efforts during the two-decade conflict in Afghanistan. This new directive echoes the ban’s initial implementation in 2017, which led to widespread chaos at airports and subsequent legal challenges.
The repercussions of such a ban could impact over one million residents of Pakistani descent in the US and an estimated 10,000 Pakistani students currently studying in the country. A significant number of Afghans, around 20,000, remain stuck in Pakistan while awaiting their pending visa applications, a situation exacerbated by recent administrative freezes on refugee admissions and foreign aid.
In summary, the potential extension of the US travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan could have serious implications for many individuals awaiting resettlement due to their past affiliations with the US. Amidst negotiations and concerns over national security, the fate of numerous Pakistani and Afghan nationals hangs in the balance as the government prepares for decisive actions next week.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
