US Halts All Asylum Decisions After DC Shooting
The United States has paused all asylum decisions across nationalities after a shooting near the White House left one National Guard member dead and another critically injured. The order was issued to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), directing an immediate and indefinite halt while authorities review vetting and security procedures.
Security Concerns Trigger Review
The move follows the arrest of an Afghan national accused of carrying out the attack. Officials said the suspension is aimed at ensuring all applicants undergo the “maximum level” of screening before asylum processing resumes. The administration also linked the freeze to broader concerns over existing immigration vetting systems.
Afghan Visa Issuance Also Paused
Alongside the asylum halt, the U.S. State Department has suspended issuing visas to Afghan passport holders. This pause applies only to new applications; those already approved remain valid. The step is part of a wider reassessment of admission protocols following the incident.
Impact On Refugees And Applicants
The halt could significantly delay thousands of pending asylum cases nationwide. Advocacy groups warn that vulnerable applicants may be left in uncertainty, though officials maintain the decision is temporary and driven purely by security considerations.
