n what could be a déjà vu moment straight out of his first term, former US President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to reintroduce a travel ban, with Pakistan and Afghanistan likely to be among the affected nations. If re-elected, Trump might tighten immigration policies once again, barring citizens from these countries from entering the United States, Reuters has cited three informed sources as saying.
This move, eerily similar to Trump’s infamous 2017 travel ban that targeted several Muslim-majority nations, is already stirring controversy. While the former president has not officially confirmed the list of countries, insiders suggest that Pakistan and Afghanistan are on the radar due to “security concerns.” Of course, the irony is not lost here—Washington’s long, complicated history with these nations continues to haunt its foreign policy decisions.
Why Pakistan and Afghanistan?
The rationale behind the potential ban reportedly revolves around national security and illegal immigration concerns. Trump and his allies argue that stricter border controls are necessary to curb threats, despite the fact that immigration from these countries remains relatively controlled. Critics, however, view this as yet another instance of discriminatory policymaking disguised as national security enforcement.
Backlash and Global Reactions
Predictably, the leaked reports have sparked strong reactions. Experts warn that such a ban could further strain US-Pakistan relations, which have already seen their fair share of turbulence over the years. Afghanistan, still reeling from the aftermath of America’s chaotic withdrawal in 2021, may find itself further isolated on the global stage.
Meanwhile, political analysts argue that this move could be a strategic attempt to appeal to Trump’s conservative voter base, where anti-immigration rhetoric has long been a rallying cry. With elections on the horizon, the former president seems keen on reviving his signature policies to energize supporters.
Will It Actually Happen?
While nothing is official yet, the possibility of a travel ban has certainly set the stage for a heated debate. If Trump secures another term in the White House, his administration may well bring back its hardline stance on immigration, leaving many wondering—will history repeat itself?