Pakistan is reportedly being given a 60-day window to address security concerns and avoid potential travel restrictions from the United States. According to American media sources, this offer comes as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts between Pakistan and the US, and it presents a crucial opportunity for Pakistan to avoid being placed on a strict travel ban list.
Avoiding the “Red List”
Recent reports indicate that, instead of facing an outright travel ban, Pakistan may be placed on an intermediate list. This decision comes after speculation that Pakistan could face severe sanctions. Diplomatic sources in Washington point to Pakistan’s recent cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, particularly its role in the capture of Mohammad Sharifullah, a key figure involved in the 2021 Kabul airport bombing. The bombing led to the deaths of 13 American service members and over 170 Afghan civilians.
This cooperation appears to have helped Pakistan avoid being placed on the US “red list,” which is reserved for countries facing total travel bans. However, concerns over rising terrorism levels in Afghanistan remain a critical issue for US officials, who are urging Pakistan to take further steps to enhance its security measures.
Potential Travel Restrictions and Lists
Reports suggest that Pakistan may be placed on a “yellow list,” which includes 25 countries. This list would result in a partial suspension of US visa issuance unless Pakistan takes action to improve security cooperation within the next two months. Countries such as Belarus and Turkmenistan are also expected to be included in this category.
Another possibility is that Pakistan could land on an “orange list,” alongside nations like Russia, Myanmar, and Haiti. This would result in some travel restrictions, though not a total ban. Under this scenario, business travelers would still be eligible for visas, but tourist and immigrant visas could face limitations. Additionally, citizens from these countries would be required to undergo mandatory in-person visa interviews.
At the extreme end, the US is finalizing a “red list” of 11 countries whose citizens would face a complete entry ban. These countries include Afghanistan, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Somalia, and others.
Rising Concerns Among American Muslims
The proposed travel restrictions have sparked anxiety among American Muslim communities, especially with the timing coinciding with the United Nations’ International Day to Combat Islamophobia. Many fear that the expansion of travel bans will disproportionately target Muslim-majority countries, reinforcing existing patterns of discrimination under the guise of national security measures.
The policy shift has caused uncertainty for students and professionals from affected countries. Columbia University’s International Students and Scholars Office has issued a travel advisory, urging students from countries like Pakistan to reconsider non-essential travel due to potential difficulties with re-entry. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has also advised caution, urging individuals to wait until the US administration finalizes its decision.
Social media discussions reflect growing concern, with Muslim professionals, including physicians and IT specialists, advising one another to carry all necessary documentation when traveling, fearing increased scrutiny at US airports and embassies.
Pakistan’s Official Response
In response to the concerns raised, the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement clarifying the situation. A spokesperson said, “We have taken note of recent media reports claiming a possible entry ban on Pakistani nationals from entering the US. As of now, this is speculative. Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mission in Washington are in close contact with US authorities to obtain further details. No official indication of a ban has been given thus far.”
The Road Ahead
Despite growing concerns, Pakistan has two months to address the US’s security concerns and potentially avoid more stringent travel restrictions. Diplomatic sources highlight Pakistan’s cooperation with the US in counterterrorism efforts, such as the arrest of Mohammad Sharifullah, as a key factor in helping the country avoid the worst-case sanctions.
The next two months will be critical in determining whether Pakistan can resolve security concerns and fully evade potential travel restrictions.
- Source: GULF NEWS
