US President Donald Trump is considering a new travel ban that could stop people from Afghanistan and Pakistan from entering the United States. The ban, expected to be announced next week, is based on security concerns, Reuters reported.
This move could affect thousands of Afghans who worked with the US and are awaiting resettlement through refugee programs or Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). Also, many fear Taliban retaliation. The US State Department is trying to get an exemption for SIV holders, but approval is uncertain as of now.
Trump first announced his plan to restrict immigration from high-risk countries like Gaza, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, as well as others deemed security threats. His recent order in January asked agencies to identify security risks and suggest travel restrictions.
Currently, about 200,000 Afghans are waiting for resettlement, with 20,000 stranded in Pakistan. Officials and refugee groups urge those with valid visas to travel before the ban is enforced.
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