Donald Trump, U.S. President is once again in the news for his controversial policies. Recently, reports have surfaced that Trump might reinstate his infamous travel ban, this time targeting Pakistan and Afghanistan. If this ban is imposed, Pakistani and Afghan citizens might be completely barred from entering the United States. This move has sparked significant debate, with media outlets across the globe covering its potential implications.
Why is Trump Considering a Travel Ban?
Trump’s approach to foreign policy has always been transactional. He sees countries as tools to achieve U.S. strategic goals, especially in regions like Afghanistan and the Middle East. While Trump has previously thanked Pakistan for assisting in counterterrorism efforts, he also acknowledges that radical elements within the country pose a significant threat to American security.
His policy on Pakistan is clear:
• The U.S. will provide Pakistan with financial aid and military assistance when necessary.
• Pakistan will continue to play a role in stabilizing Afghanistan.
• However, Pakistani citizens may be restricted from entering the U.S. due to security concerns.
Historical Context
This is not the first time Trump has imposed a travel ban. During his first term (2017-2021), he implemented a “Muslim Travel Ban” that restricted citizens from several African and Middle Eastern countries from entering the U.S. Now, as he prepares for a potential second term, Pakistan and Afghanistan could be next on the list.
Pakistan’s Role in U.S. Strategy
Trump has always viewed Pakistan as a “necessary evil.” While he understands Pakistan’s strategic importance in South Asia, he also sees it as a breeding ground for extremist groups.
• Afghanistan Factor: The Taliban recently issued a warning that if the U.S. tries to retrieve weapons left behind in Afghanistan, they might use them against American forces. Trump realizes that if the U.S. wants to recover these weapons, Pakistan’s cooperation will be essential.
• India as a Counterbalance: Trump has previously stated that “India is a check to Pakistan.” He believes that leveraging India can help keep Pakistan in line, ensuring that it does not act against American interests.
Impact on Pakistan
If this travel ban is enforced, thousands of Pakistanis could be affected. Pakistani passports are already among the weakest in the world, and such a ban would further damage their global standing. The Pakistani government is expected to lobby against this decision, but whether Trump will reconsider remains uncertain.
Trump’s Unique Approach to Foreign Policy
Trump’s diplomacy often follows a paradoxical pattern. On one hand, he expresses gratitude towards Pakistan; on the other, he prepares to restrict its citizens from entering the U.S. This “carrot and stick” approach is characteristic of his leadership style.
A similar example can be seen in his handling of Washington D.C.’s homelessness crisis. Displeased with the rising number of homeless people in the U.S. capital, Trump has suggested taking federal control over the city and removing the homeless population altogether. This illustrates his pragmatic—sometimes ruthless—approach to governance.
What Lies Ahead?
Pakistan now faces a diplomatic challenge:
1. Convincing the U.S. to reconsider the ban: Pakistani leaders may engage in high-level talks to prevent their inclusion in the list.
2. Strengthening ties with other global powers: If the U.S. closes its doors, Pakistan might look towards China and Russia for stronger alliances.
3. Managing domestic backlash: A travel ban would hurt Pakistani citizens and could lead to political instability within the country.
With Trump’s unpredictable leadership style, the world will be watching how Pakistan navigates this situation. If history is any indication, Trump’s decisions will be based on American interests first, regardless of how it affects other nations.
Final Thought
Trump’s potential travel ban is yet another example of how global politics is shaped by power and self-interest. While Pakistan may be an ally when convenient, it is also a liability when it comes to U.S. security. This unfolding situation will have massive geopolitical repercussions, and it remains to be seen how Pakistan—and the world—responds.
Bonus Question
Recently, FIFA announced that three countries will be banned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Can you guess which three?
A) Ukraine, Russia, Brazil
B) Pakistan, Russia, Congo
C) Russia, Italy, Japan
D) South Africa, Syria, China
Comment your answer below!