Visa Halt: Afghan Nationals Face New U.S. Restriction

The Trump administration has ordered a halt on visa processing for Afghan nationals, affecting those in the Special Immigrant Visa program for aiding the U.S. This move follows a recent violent incident involving an Afghan national and aims to ensure security. Critics argue it's an anti-immigration stance.

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has mandated an immediate halt to visa processing for Afghan nationals. A State Department cable, made public by Reuters, reveals that diplomats globally are now required to disregard visa applications from Afghans, stalling the special immigration program meant for those who aided U.S. forces.

The directive follows a violent incident involving a former Afghan operative, intensifying scrutiny over Afghan immigrants' credentials. According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio's announcement, there will be a pause in visa issuance to Afghan passport holders as a security measure.

Despite criticism from volunteer groups accusing the administration of anti-immigration motives, scheduled visa appointments will proceed but are likely to end in rejections. Previously authorized visas must be nullified, adding to a broader trend under Trump of tightened immigration enforcement.

(With inputs from agencies.)