Washington, Nov 30 (V7N) – The United States has temporarily suspended all asylum application processing after an Afghan immigrant shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, killing one of them. The decision comes amid growing concerns over security and follows earlier announcements by President Donald Trump to halt immigration from developing countries.

Joseph Edlow, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), stated on Friday that asylum decisions will be paused “until maximum security vetting of all foreign nationals can be ensured.” According to CBS News, USCIS officials have been instructed not to make any final decisions on asylum applications for citizens of any country worldwide. However, the verification and background check processes will continue, with officials refraining only from issuing final determinations.

Although President Trump referred broadly to citizens from developing nations, he did not specify any particular country. Legal experts anticipate that the policy could face significant judicial challenges. The move has also drawn international criticism, with various United Nations agencies condemning the suspension of asylum applications.

This decision reflects President Trump’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration controls during his second term. His administration has previously deported numerous immigrants and proposed ending birthright citizenship, which grants automatic citizenship to individuals born on U.S. soil.

The USCIS suspension applies to all foreign nationals seeking asylum and will remain in effect until authorities can ensure thorough security vetting, emphasizing national safety as the primary concern.

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