Former President Donald Trump is reportedly working on a new travel ban that may prevent citizens from several Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Trump’s review of security and vetting risks is nearing completion, with a new travel ban expected soon.
The new list is likely to include countries such as Afghanistan and Pakistan, which were part of the original travel ban issued in early 2017.
The first ban, which restricted travel from seven Muslim-majority nations, was a key policy of Trump’s early presidency.
While President Joe Biden repealed the ban in 2021, recent concerns over terrorism have led Trump to reconsider the measure.
Trump has also indicated that he would expand the travel ban to include residents of Gaza, following the Hamas attack on Israel, citing national security threats.
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The ban could impact thousands of Afghans who have been approved for resettlement in the U.S. as refugees or under Special Immigrant Visas due to their work with U.S. forces during the 20-year war in Afghanistan.
These individuals, many of whom are at risk of retaliation by the Taliban, could face obstacles in their relocation efforts.
Afghanistan and Pakistan are expected to be added to the list of countries for a full travel ban, according to multiple sources.
Trump is expected to announce several new executive orders later today as part of his efforts to advance policies during the early part of his presidency.
This potential new ban could significantly affect those seeking refuge in the United States and add to the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies and national security.
