On Tuesday, the Trump administration abruptly canceled travel plans for thousands of refugees who had already been approved to settle in the United States. This move is part of a series of executive orders aimed at tightening immigration controls, a promise made during Trump's campaign.
This sudden suspension affects over 10,000 refugees who had completed the lengthy and rigorous admission process and were set to arrive in the coming weeks. Among those impacted are more than 1,600 Afghans who had assisted U.S. military efforts, as well as family members of active-duty military personnel.
These refugees had endured years of waiting to gain approval to rebuild their lives in the U.S. after escaping war and persecution in their home countries. Just days ago, Trump announced a halt to the refugee resettlement program as part of his broader immigration restriction plans, setting a deadline of January 27th for some arrivals.
However, on Tuesday, the agency responsible for the admission and arrival of refugees in the U.S. sent out an email stating that "refugee arrivals in the United States have been suspended until further notice."
Shawn VanDiver, a Navy veteran and leader of the #AfghanEvac group supporting Afghan resettlement efforts, expressed deep concern over the program's suspension. "It's alarming that the Trump administration has stopped refugee flights so abruptly, leaving thousands of Afghan allies in a state of fear and uncertainty," he stated, urging the need for clear communication with the affected families.
Despite this pause, the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program for Afghans who worked directly with the U.S. government does not appear to be affected by this order. The decision, initially set for just one week, was brought forward without a clear explanation for the change.
The State Department has referred inquiries on the matter to the White House, while refugee aid organizations argue that such legal immigration should be supported due to the stringent background checks refugees must undergo before entering the country.
Impact of Trump's Refugee Travel Suspension
How many refugees are affected by the travel suspension?
The travel suspension affects over 10,000 refugees who had already been approved to enter the United States.
Are Afghan allies of the U.S. military affected by this suspension?
Yes, more than 1,600 Afghan allies who assisted U.S. military efforts are among those impacted by the suspension.
Is the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program affected by the suspension?
No, the SIV program for Afghans who worked directly with the U.S. government is not affected by the suspension.
Why was the travel suspension decision advanced?
The decision was advanced without a clear explanation for the change in timing.