U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a major shift in immigration policy. He said his administration will “permanently pause” migration from all so-called “Third World Countries.” The announcement followed the death of a National Guard member in an ambush near the White House. The attack renewed calls for stricter vetting of foreign nationals.
A Major Escalation in Trump’s Immigration Agenda
Trump’s statement represents one of his broadest actions since the shooting. Authorities say the accused gunman was an Afghan national. He reportedly entered the U.S. through a 2021 resettlement program. The program began after the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan.
Trump said the freeze will also affect cases approved under the Biden administration. He pledged to end all federal benefits for non-citizens. He also said he will revoke citizenship from immigrants who threaten public order. Trump vowed to deport anyone considered a public burden or security risk. He added that some people are “inconsistent with Western values.”
The administration did not specify which nations fit the “Third World” label. Immigration agencies did not comment on Trump’s announcement.
UN Calls on U.S. to Uphold Refugee Protections
The United Nations urged the U.S. to protect access to asylum. UN officials said the U.S. must respect international refugee laws. They stressed that displaced people deserve fair and lawful processing. They referenced obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Details on the Suspect
The alleged attacker is 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal. He reportedly received asylum earlier this year under Trump. He originally entered the U.S. during the 2021 Afghanistan evacuation. Trump criticized the airlift for weak security screening. He claimed many arrivals were not properly vetted.
In response, U.S. immigration officials halted all Afghan-related applications. The pause will remain in place indefinitely.
Government Begins Reviewing Immigration From 19 Countries
Homeland Security officials confirmed Trump ordered a large-scale immigration review. The review covers asylum approvals from 19 countries. It also involves green cards issued under the Biden administration. The goal is to find individuals who may now face deportation.
“Reverse Migration” Becomes a Key Focus
Trump highlighted a strategy he calls “reverse migration.” He said it aims to reduce “illegal and disruptive populations.” His administration expanded deportation operations across the country. Officers detained many long-term residents with no criminal history.
ICE data shows more than two-thirds of 53,000 detainees had no convictions. That number suggests a wider and harsher enforcement strategy.
A Turning Point in U.S. Immigration Policy
The suspect lived in the U.S. legally, according to officials. Still, the incident accelerated Trump’s push for tighter immigration rules. Supporters say stronger vetting improves national security. Critics warn the measures may violate international law. Many fear the policies could split families already living legally in the U.S.
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