US halts all asylum decisions after shooting of National Guard members
Summary
The US government has halted all asylum decisions and paused visas for Afghan passport holders following a shooting near the White House that resulted in one National Guard member's death and another critically injured.
Key Points
- The US has stopped all asylum decisions and visa issuance for Afghan passport holders following a shooting near the White House.
- The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who worked with the CIA and was granted asylum this year, faces charges including first-degree murder.
- The shooting resulted in the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and critical injury to Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, both West Virginia National Guard members.
- US officials argue the pause on asylum and visa issuance aims to ensure maximum vetting and screening amid concerns over immigration security.
