WASHINGTON (FluxDaily) — The Trump administration has abruptly halted all asylum decisions and paused the issuance of visas for individuals traveling on Afghan passports following a shooting incident near the White House, which resulted in the death of one National Guard member and left another in critical condition.
Authorities are investigating the motive behind the shooting involving a 29-year-old Afghan national, who had previously worked with the CIA during the Afghanistan War. The suspect faces serious charges, including first-degree murder, and had been granted asylum under the Trump administration after applying during the Biden administration, according to a resettlement organization assisting Afghan allies.
In response to the shooting, the Trump administration has intensified its commitment to legal immigration restrictions, pledging to review Afghan migrants and others already in the U.S. This move is part of a broader strategy to curtail immigration from certain impoverished nations.
Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, tragically died from her injuries sustained during the incident, while Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, is hospitalized and in critical condition. They were deployed as part of Trump’s law enforcement mission in Washington D.C.
The U.S. Attorney’s office has stated that the charges against the suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, now include several counts related to armed assault. Investigators continue to gather evidence and may introduce further charges...
Asylum Decisions on Hold
President Trump condemned the incident, labeling it a terrorist attack, and criticized the Biden administration for allowing entry into the U.S. for individuals who had partnered with American forces in Afghanistan. In a statement, Joseph Edlow, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, remarked that all asylum decisions are now under rigorous review to ensure comprehensive vetting of newcomers.
Rejecting criticisms of unfairness, Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that his department has also paused visa issuance for all Afghan passport holders. This stance has ignited outrage among advocacy groups, who argue that the actions stem from a singular violent act and could unjustly harm an entire community of Afghan refugees and veterans.
The Alleged Shooter
Locally residing in Bellingham, Washington, Lakanwal was described as quiet and respectful by neighbors. Reports suggest that he had been struggling with employment and had recently become reclusive.
Having entered the U.S. in 2021 via the Biden-era Operation Allies Welcome, which aimed to resettle Afghans post the U.S. withdrawal, Lakanwal's initial application for asylum was granted earlier this year under the current administration. His history includes service in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit, where he ascended to the role of team leader.
Honoring Specialist Beckstrom
Specialist Beckstrom had joined the National Guard shortly after graduating high school, demonstrating exceptional qualities as a military police officer. The West Virginia National Guard expressed deep sorrow over her passing and highlighted her dedication to service.
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This situation is ongoing, and further developments are anticipated as investigations continue across multiple states.
