President Trump meets with troops during his visit to Afghanistan. Travel Pulse
The Trump administration is considering bringing back a travel ban, similar to the one imposed in 2017. On January 20, President Trump signed an Executive Order instructing officials to create a list of countries with weak security screening systems. People from those nations could face restrictions on entering the U.S.
In 2017, Trump introduced a travel ban that affected Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Later, Iraq was removed from the list, while Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela were added. Sudan was also taken off in a revised version. Critics called it a "Muslim ban" because most of the affected countries had Muslim-majority populations.
Many advocacy groups have voiced concerns about the possible return of the ban. The International Refugee Admissions Project (IRAP) released a statement on Friday, warning that many refugees and visa applicants could suffer. "Many have been waiting years for their visas and remain in dangerous situations," IRAP stated. "A new travel ban would put their lives at risk by blocking their chance to find safety."
The group also fears that Afghan refugees could be heavily affected. "Reports suggest that Afghan refugees, including Special Immigrant Visa holders and others who helped the U.S. in Afghanistan, might be included in this unlawful ban," IRAP added. "It is shameful that the Trump administration is turning its back on Afghan allies and other displaced people worldwide."
Officials must finalize the list of restricted countries within 60 days of the Executive Order. The deadline is fast approaching. There are reports that Pakistan could be among the nations added to the new ban.
If enacted, the new policy could have serious consequences for thousands of people trying to enter the U.S. Many are anxiously waiting to see how it unfolds.
