US bars Pakistani diplomat entry, sparks travel ban concerns

LOS ANGELES: In a recent development, the US has barred Ahsan Wagan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, from entering the country during a private visit, sparking concerns about a potential new travel ban.

Wagan was denied entry by US immigration officials at Los Angeles International Airport due to allegations of administrative corruption during his previous posting in the US.

This incident has raised fears that the US might impose a new travel ban, similar to the one implemented during Trump’s first term, which targeted several Muslim-majority countries.

Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik clarified that there is no outright ban on Pakistani travelers, but some restrictions might be introduced.

Additionally, the US State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory, warning of an unpredictable security situation in Pakistan, citing risks of attacks on civilian and government targets.

Malik acknowledged US concerns over rising terrorism-related incidents in Pakistan but reassured that Pakistan is committed to strengthening counterterrorism measures.

It’s worth noting that the US has not imposed a complete travel ban on Pakistani nationals, and Malik compared the potential measures to those implemented during Trump’s first term.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet issued an official statement, but diplomatic sources indicate that the matter is under investigation.