US Weighs Expanding Travel Ban After Guard Shooting
The US administration is considering expanding its travel-ban list from the current 19 countries to more than 30, following a recent shooting involving National Guard members in Washington, D.C. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is reported to have recommended broadening restrictions in what she described as a national-security response.
Noem Pushes For A Wider Ban
Noem has urged the administration to impose what she called a “full travel ban” on countries she believes pose security risks. A final list has not been announced, but officials confirmed that discussions are underway on significantly enlarging the existing ban.
Immigration Processes Temporarily Paused
The government has already paused immigration applications — including visas, asylum claims and green-card processing — from the 19 nations currently on the restricted list. Officials say the suspension is temporary while a review of the expanded ban is completed.
Critics Warn Of Broad Human Impact
Human-rights groups and several lawmakers have criticised the proposal, arguing that blanket restrictions unfairly target entire populations. They warn that the move could intensify xenophobia and disrupt the lives of thousands of immigrants with no links to recent violence.
