US President Donald Trump is expected to impose a new travel ban next week. The ban could restrict entry for people from Pakistan and Afghanistan due to security concerns, sources say. The move resembles Trump’s first-term travel ban, which targeted several Muslim-majority countries.
That ban, upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018, included Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen. President Joe Biden later repealed it. Trump’s new restrictions may cover more countries, but details remain unclear.
Impact on Afghan Refugees and Special Visa Holders
Thousands of Afghans could suffer if the ban takes effect. Many previously received clearance for resettlement in the United States under refugee and Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). These individuals face threats from the Taliban due to their past ties with US forces.
Advocacy groups fear the ban will leave them stranded in dangerous conditions. The US already slowed down the processing of Afghan visa applications in recent years. A new ban could completely halt their hopes of relocation.
Trump Links Ban to National Security Concerns
The travel restrictions come after Trump’s recent address to Congress. He highlighted Pakistan’s role in capturing Mohammad Sharifullah, a suspect in the 2021 Abbey Gate bombing. That attack killed 13 US troops and 170 Afghans during the Kabul airport evacuation.
Trump praised Pakistan for assisting in Sharifullah’s extradition. He said the terrorist was on his way to the US to face justice. “This was a very momentous day for those 13 families… and the many people so badly injured on that fateful day in Afghanistan,” Trump said.
Pakistan Welcomes US Recognition of Its Counterterrorism Efforts
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded positively to Trump’s remarks. He thanked the US president for acknowledging Pakistan’s role in counterterrorism.
“We thank US President Donald Trump for appreciating Pakistan’s support in the fight against terrorism,” Shehbaz wrote on X. He emphasized Pakistan’s role in arresting Sharifullah, a senior commander of ISIS-K.
Wider Implications of a Travel Ban on Pakistan
Pakistan has never been part of previous US travel bans. A new restriction could damage diplomatic ties between the two countries. It may also affect thousands of Pakistani travelers, students, and professionals.
Experts believe such a ban could worsen economic conditions for many Pakistanis. The US remains an important destination for business and education. If the ban extends beyond security-related cases, it could block many legal travelers.
Growing Concerns Over US Immigration Policies
Trump has promised stricter immigration controls if he returns to power. His administration previously limited visas for several nations. Many expect his second-term policies to be even tougher.
The new travel ban remains uncertain, with no official confirmation yet. However, sources suggest the announcement could come within days. If implemented, it will mark a major shift in US policy toward South Asia.
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