Washington, D.C.: In a move that could have significant geopolitical repercussions, United States President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to impose a travel ban on Pakistan and Afghanistan. The executive order, expected to be issued as early as next week, follows a government review assessing security and vetting risks associated with various countries.
The decision comes shortly after President Trump commended Pakistan for extraditing terrorists responsible for the deaths of U.S. soldiers. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif swiftly responded to Trump’s praise, but the anticipated travel restrictions may now cast a shadow over diplomatic relations between the two nations.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the review process has identified Afghanistan for a complete travel ban. Three out of four sources also suggested that Pakistan is likely to be included on the list. The move aligns with Trump’s prior travel restrictions on several Muslim-majority nations, including Iran, Libya, and Syria, a policy upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 before being revoked by President Joe Biden.
On January 20, President Trump signed an executive order mandating stricter security vetting for foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States. The directive instructed multiple cabinet departments to compile a list of countries by March 12 that should be subject to partial or complete travel bans due to inadequate vetting and screening processes.
If imposed, this measure could impact thousands of Pakistani and Afghan nationals seeking to travel to the U.S. for business, education, and family reunification. In recent months, the U.S. has intensified efforts to deport illegal migrants, particularly from Europe and Asia. Pakistani nationals have frequently been subjected to heightened scrutiny by security agencies worldwide, with increased restrictions on their travel.
Pakistan’s government recently issued an advisory warning its citizens and first-time travelers about potential difficulties when embarking on foreign trips. The anticipated U.S. travel ban may further exacerbate challenges for Pakistani travelers and heighten diplomatic tensions between Washington and Islamabad.
While the final details of the travel ban remain undisclosed, officials suggest that the White House is determined to enforce stricter entry regulations to bolster national security. The international community will be watching closely as President Trump moves forward with this controversial decision.
