The United States has announced the suspension of processing asylum-related applications. Last Wednesday, an Afghan immigrant shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., killing one of them. In response to the incident, the U.S. made this decision.
Earlier, President Donald Trump declared a halt to taking immigrants from all Third World countries.
Joseph Edlow, Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), wrote on X on Friday, “All asylum decision processes will remain suspended until maximum security vetting is ensured for all foreign nationals.”
CBS News reported that USCIS officials have been instructed not to make any decisions on asylum applications. The suspension will be effective for citizens of all countries.
However, officers can continue reviewing and assessing applications—they are only barred from issuing decisions.
Although Trump spoke of “all Third World countries,” he did not specify any particular nation. Experts believe his decision will face significant legal challenges. The move is also drawing global criticism, including condemnation from multiple UN agencies.
Since beginning his second presidential term, Trump has taken a strict stance on immigration. His administration has already deported many immigrants. Additionally, he is attempting to end birthright citizenship—the law granting automatic U.S. citizenship to anyone born on American soil.
