Washington: President Donald Trump is preparing to implement a new travel ban that could prevent individuals from Afghanistan and Pakistan from entering the United States as early as next week, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The ban is part of a broader immigration crackdown and follows a government review assessing the security and vetting standards of various countries. While the full list of affected nations has not been confirmed, sources indicate that both Afghanistan and Pakistan are expected to be included.
The proposed restrictions could have serious implications for thousands of Afghans who were promised resettlement in the U.S., particularly those who worked alongside American forces during the 20-year war in Afghanistan. Many of these individuals hold Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) and have already undergone extensive security screenings. Despite this, sources say an exemption for SIV holders is unlikely.
This move echoes Trump’s previous travel bans targeting several majority-Muslim nations, a policy that was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018. The new order aligns with his administration’s efforts to tighten immigration policies since the start of his second term.
Adding to the challenges, Pakistan has announced plans to deport thousands of Afghan refugees currently waiting for U.S. resettlement. According to reports, around 20,000 Afghans approved for relocation to the U.S. are currently in Pakistan. The United Nations has expressed concerns over their forced return, warning that it could place many at risk, particularly those fleeing Taliban persecution.
As Trump’s administration moves forward with its new immigration policies, advocacy groups are urging affected individuals to travel immediately if they hold valid U.S. visas. However, the uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the ban has left many in limbo.
