The United States has stopped giving visas to all people traveling on Afghan passports, effective immediately. This major step was taken days after a shocking shooting incident near the White House in Washington, D.C., that resulted in the death of a National Guard member. This decision shows the U.S. government's high level of concern about national security and public safety following the attack.

The gunman involved in the incident was identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national. He had come to the U.S. in 2021 under a program meant for Afghans who helped American forces during the war. On November 26, Lakanwal shot two National Guard members who were on patrol, sadly killing 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and injuring 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe. The attack happened only a few blocks away from the White House, making the security issue even more serious.

In response to the violence, U.S. leaders announced a tougher stance on immigration. The Secretary of State confirmed that protecting the country is the highest priority, leading to the visa pause. Furthermore, the President has promised to "permanently pause" migration from what he called "all Third World Countries" and deport foreign nationals who are seen as a security risk. This quick policy change reflects the growing worry about how people are allowed into the country.