Trump Administration Halts Immigration Applications from 19 Countries

The Trump administration has paused immigration applications for nationals from 19 high-risk countries, as detailed in a USCIS memo. This decision aims to enhance vetting and screening processes despite the potential delays it may cause for over 1.4 million pending asylum applications. The move follows a recent violent incident involving an Afghan national and reflects ongoing concerns about national security. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow emphasized the need for thorough vetting of Afghan refugees post-U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.