The United States has intensified immigration restrictions, rolling out a series of heightened security measures. In its latest, the Department of State has temporarily halted visa issuance for travellers holding Afghan passports, effectively immediately. The move comes as part of broader measures aimed at ensuring the safety of US citizens after the recent shooting incident near the White House that claimed life of one National Guard member and injured another.
What prompted the action?
The shooting, carried out by 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the US in 2021, prompted the administration to review previous immigration approvals. The Department of State, headed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed that the step has been taken to recognise and protect the country from potential threats. The statement emphasised that all necessary steps are being taken to address the current situation while prioritising national security and public safety.
Visa issuance halted until further notice
“The Department of State has IMMEDIATELY paused visa issuance for individuals traveling on Afghan passports. The Department is taking all necessary steps to protect U.S. national security and public safety,” the Department of State announced on X. This implies that no new visas will be issued to Afghan passport holders until further notice. Also, anyone from Afghanistan planning to travel to the US will be unable to get a visa during this pause. Notably, this is a temporary suspension and will remain in effect until further notice.
The Department of State has IMMEDIATELY paused visa issuance for individuals traveling on Afghan passports.
---Advertisement---The Department is taking all necessary steps to protect U.S. national security and public safety.
— Department of State (@StateDept) November 28, 2025
Afghan national to be charged with first-degree murder
Meanwhile, the Washington Post reported that the accused Afghan national will be charged with first-degree murder. The upgraded charges of first-degree murder, instead of the initial charges of assault, raise the possibility for the suspected attacker to face the death penalty in the shooting case. US President Donald Trump had called that attack that took place on Wednesday, an act of “terror” and crime against the United States. In a short video address, Trump linked the shooting to three key political issues: his domestic deployment of military forces, the wider immigration debate, and the legacy of America’s 20-year involvement in Afghanistan.
Two National Guard members were severely injured in the incident, and one of them, identified as 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom succumbed to gunshot wounds on Thursday.
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