Potential Expansion of U.S. Travel Ban to Include Pakistan and Afghanistan
The United States may soon extend its travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of President Trump’s renewed focus on heightened vetting processes. Optimism within Pakistan regarding exclusion contrasts with the plight of thousands of Afghans awaiting resettlement in the U.S. amid significant security concerns.
The United States may soon impose travel restrictions on individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of an expansion of the so-called Muslim ban initiated during President Donald Trump’s first term. A report on this potential action is expected at the White House on March 12, following Trump’s directive in January for enhanced vetting processes for visitors to the U.S. Shawn Vandiver of AfghanEvac has expressed concerns about foreigners from specific nations being barred entry.
Despite looming concerns, Pakistani officials remain hopeful that their nation may escape inclusion on such a list. This optimism is bolstered by recent positive remarks from Trump regarding Pakistan’s assistance in capturing key suspects in the Kabul airport bombing that took place in August 2021. Trump acknowledged Pakistan’s contributions during a recent address, specifically thanking the government for their cooperation in apprehending a suspect linked to the tragedy that claimed the lives of 13 U.S. service members and numerous Afghan civilians.
The Trump administration has undertaken a review of countries that pose security and vetting risks. If implemented, this new travel ban could significantly impact thousands of Afghans who have been cleared for resettlement in the U.S. Many of these individuals are at risk due to their affiliations with the U.S. during the two-decade military engagement in Afghanistan. Furthermore, current statistics suggest a significant Pakistani diaspora in the U.S., with estimates indicating over one million residents of Pakistani descent, alongside a sizable population of Afghan refugees awaiting resettlement.
In summary, the potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new U.S. travel ban raises significant humanitarian and diplomatic concerns. While Pakistani officials maintain a degree of optimism regarding their exclusion, thousands of Afghans face uncertainty as they await resettlement amidst heightened security scrutiny. The implications of such a travel ban could impact many lives, drawing parallels to the contentious travel restrictions of Trump’s prior terms.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
