Potential Travel Ban Expansion to Include Pakistan and Afghanistan

The U.S. may expand its travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan, with a report expected by March 12. The move follows President Trump’s focus on enhanced vetting procedures. Afghan evacuee advocates express concern about the impact on refugees, while Pakistani officials maintain optimism about exclusion from the list due to cooperation in a recent terrorism case. The ban could affect many Afghans awaiting resettlement, highlighting significant humanitarian concerns.

The United States may soon implement travel restrictions for individuals from Pakistan and Afghanistan, as President Donald Trump considers expanding the original travel ban initiated during his first term. Shawn Vandiver, head of the AfghanEvac coalition, indicated that the White House will receive a report on this matter on March 12, following Mr. Trump’s January directive to review visa processes and enhance visitor vetting. Vandiver expressed concern, stating, “We hope that refugees would be exempt from this ban … but no final decision has been made yet.”

Despite these developments, Pakistani officials are hopeful that their country will be excluded from the travel ban list. This optimism stems from recent remarks by Mr. Trump and other U.S. officials acknowledging Pakistan’s assistance in apprehending Mohammad Sharifullah, a key suspect in the devastating 2021 Kabul airport bombing. Mr. Trump expressed gratitude towards Pakistan for their support, indicating positive bilateral relations that could influence the decision.

In January, Mr. Trump’s executive order directed agencies to evaluate nations that pose security and vetting challenges, warning of potential admissions suspensions for nationals from these countries. Reports suggest a new travel ban may be finalized soon, expanding beyond the original scope of the first travel ban under Mr. Trump’s administration in 2017, which primarily affected citizens from several Middle Eastern countries.

This proposed ban could have significant implications for Afghan individuals approved for resettlement in the United States on refugee statuses or Special Immigrant Visas, many of whom remain at risk of Taliban retribution. The U.S. Census Bureau recorded approximately 629,946 Pakistani-Americans in 2021, while more recent estimates suggest this number could exceed one million. Furthermore, there are about 200,000 Afghans awaiting U.S. resettlement or Special Immigrant Visa applications, stranded in various countries due to the recent entry restrictions.

In conclusion, the potential inclusion of Pakistan and Afghanistan in a new U.S. travel ban could significantly impact those seeking refuge, particularly individuals associated with U.S. military efforts. The response from Pakistani officials suggests a glimmer of hope for an exemption, while the situation remains fluid and subject to further governmental review. As developments unfold, the international community watches closely, given the humanitarian implications of such travel restrictions.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com