US Immigration Pause: 19 Non-European Countries Face Security Scrutiny Amid Rising Tensions
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The US government has temporarily halted immigration applications from 19 non-European countries, citing national security and public safety concerns. The move, which affects countries already subject to partial travel bans, includes Afghanistan and Somalia. According to an official memorandum, the decision follows a recent shooting in Washington, where an Afghan suspect was arrested. The attack claimed the life of a National Guard member and left another critically injured. President Donald Trump has also intensified his rhetoric against Somalis, calling them 'garbage' and stating that 'we don't want them in our country.' This new policy, aimed at protecting national security, will put on hold all pending applications from the listed countries. Immigrants from these nations will need to undergo a thorough re-review process, including potential interviews, to assess any potential security threats. Critics, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association, have reported incidents of cancelled oath ceremonies, naturalization interviews, and adjustment of status interviews for individuals from the affected countries. The 19 countries targeted by the US government include Afghanistan, Somalia, and others already subject to severe immigration restrictions. The decision is seen as part of President Trump's aggressive immigration enforcement efforts, which have been ongoing since his return to office in January. The administration has also emphasized the need to reshape legal immigration, with a focus on protecting national security and casting blame on former President Joe Biden's policies.
