US Expected to Impose Travel Ban on Pakistanis Soon

Synopsis

As the Trump administration prepares a new travel ban, both Pakistan and Afghanistan are likely to face severe restrictions, including a complete entry ban for their citizens. This move could significantly impact thousands seeking refuge in the US.

Key Takeaways

Pakistan and Afghanistan may face a total travel ban.
Sources indicate new restrictions could be in place within 10 days.
Over 200,000 Afghans await resettlement in the US.
20,000 Afghans stranded in Pakistan may face deportation.
Trump's order emphasizes stringent vetting of foreign entrants.

Islamabad, March 6 (NationPress) Pakistan, in conjunction with Afghanistan, is anticipated to be among the foremost nations facing imminent travel restrictions, potentially culminating in a total prohibition on citizens from these countries entering the United States. This is part of a new travel ban strategy being formulated by the Trump administration.

According to insiders within the Pakistani government, the examination and vetting processes for both nations may expose numerous inadequacies, which could result in a complete travel ban. This situation endangers countless Pakistanis and Afghans seeking asylum or relocation in the US through immigration channels.

“Afghanistan is expected to be included in the list of nations recommended for a comprehensive travel ban. Pakistan’s designation is also likely to be suggested for inclusion,” stated a credible source who disclosed that these new travel restrictions might come into effect within the next ten days.

Officials advise Pakistanis holding valid US visas to travel promptly before the travel ban is instituted. This anonymous source noted that Washington's latest measures could significantly affect tens of thousands of Afghans previously approved for resettlement in the US, having received Special Immigrant Visas.

“The resettlement of these Afghans serves as compensation and a commitment made during the Biden administration for their collaboration with the US throughout the two-decade conflict in Afghanistan,” the source emphasized.

Currently, over 200,000 Afghans are in line for resettlement in the US after the Taliban regained control in August 2021.

At least 20,000 Afghans, who possess Special Immigrant Visas to the US, are currently stranded in Pakistan, facing deportation back to Afghanistan following President Trump’s declaration of a 90-day halt on refugee admissions and foreign aid that supports their transportation on January 20.

The executive order from Trump mandated the implementation of new regulations for rigorous scrutiny and vetting of foreigners applying for entry into the United States, aimed at identifying national security risks.