How Will Trump Shift Immigration After National Guard Shooting?

Author Summary

President Trump is tightening immigration policies after an Afghan national's alleged shooting of National Guard members, halting Afghan petitions, reviewing asylum cases, and planning broader restrictions amid legal hurdles. (148 characters)

Incident Overview

An Afghan immigrant, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, reportedly shot at National Guard personnel near the White House, killing one—Beckstrom—and critically injuring another, Andrew Wolfe, 24. Lakanwal, who arrived via a Biden-era evacuation in 2021 and received asylum in April, sustained injuries and faces first-degree murder charges.

Policy Shifts

Trump suspended processing of Afghan immigration petitions and ordered a review of all prior administration asylum approvals. The administration plans enhanced vetting for travelers from 19 countries, echoing first-term bans, and aims to end federal benefits for noncitizens while deporting those not contributing positively. USCIS will re-evaluate green cards for nationals from countries of concern.

Context and Response

Authorities deployed extra National Guard troops to Washington DC following the "crime emergency" declaration. Critics contend these measures unfairly target Afghans and others, with past similar policies facing court challenges and congressional pushback. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem noted resuming asylum after backlog clearance.

more

TODAY on MSN TODAY on MSN — 2025-11-30

More News