Trump Administration Responds to Capitol Shooting with Sweeping Immigration Restrictions

Tue Dec 02 2025 08:06:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the wake of the shooting of two National Guard members by an Afghan suspect, the Trump administration has implemented aggressive new immigration policies, affecting asylum seekers and Afghans who supported U.S. operations.

Following the recent shooting incident in Washington, D.C., the Trump administration has announced significant changes to immigration policy, pausing asylum decisions, reexamining green card applications for certain countries, and halting visas for Afghan nationals. Critics say these measures amount to collective punishment and pose a waste of governmental resources. These changes apply to all individuals from nations deemed 'of concern,' and come as part of a larger effort to ensure national security.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Following the shooting of two National Guard members by an Afghan national in the nation’s capital, the Trump administration has unveiled several new policies designed to tighten immigration restrictions. This includes suspending decisions on asylum applications, reassessing green card requests from individuals hailing from 'countries of concern,' and stopping visas for Afghans who contributed to U.S. military efforts in Afghanistan.

Days before the Capitol shooting, a memo obtained by The Associated Press revealed intentions towards a comprehensive review of immigrant cases from the Biden administration.

Advocates for refugees have condemned these new directives, stating they unfairly punish entire groups and waste resources by reopening processed cases.

The administration maintains that the safety of American citizens is paramount. Here's an overview of the significant immigration-related changes introduced:

All Asylum Decisions Suspended

Joseph Edlow, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, stated via social media that asylum decisions would be put on hold until comprehensive vetting measures could be ensured. No formal guidance has been provided, leading to ambiguity regarding the suspension's duration.

Individuals seeking asylum must prove they would face persecution if returned home. Asylum was previously restricted under Trump, but recent developments imply even further scrutiny is forthcoming on asylum applications.

Focus on Countries of Concern

On November 27, Edlow indicated that a thorough reassessment of green cards from 'high-risk' nations—19 countries including Afghanistan—was underway. He emphasized that 'American safety is non-negotiable.'

This comes after previous bans on travel to the U.S. for citizens from 12 countries and increased restrictions for seven others.

No Visas for Afghans

Alongside broader immigration restrictions, officials announced the suspension of all immigration requests from Afghan nationals. This includes applications for green cards and permission to bring family members to the U.S.

The State Department also confirmed a halt on visa issuance for individuals with Afghan passports, marking a significant shutdown of routes previously available to Afghans who worked with U.S. forces.

Review of Refugees Admitted Under Biden

Even before the shooting incident, a review of refugees admitted under the Biden administration was in progress. This review impacts tens of thousands who have fled persecution but advocates argue that the already rigorous vetting process makes this move unnecessary.