ISLAMABAD, March 10 (Alliance News): Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik has clarified that the United States has not imposed a blanket travel ban on Pakistani nationals, though some restrictions may be introduced in light of security concerns.
Speaking on TV, Malik addressed reports suggesting that the US administration is considering new travel restrictions on Pakistan and Afghanistan, similar to those enforced during Donald Trump’s first term, which targeted several Muslim-majority countries.
He acknowledged that while the US has raised concerns over rising terrorism in Pakistan, there is no outright travel ban. However, the US State Department recently issued a Level 3 travel advisory, warning American citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to security risks.
The advisory followed the release of the Global Terrorism Index 2025, which ranked Pakistan as the second-most terrorism-affected country in 2024, with a 45% increase in terrorism-related deaths. The number of attacks more than doubled, surpassing 1,000 for the first time in the index’s history.
Malik emphasized the urgent need to strengthen Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, stressing that weapons left behind after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan have fueled cross-border terrorism, posing threats to both Pakistan and regional stability.
Highlighting Pakistan’s role in counterterrorism, he noted that US military command, including CENTCOM, has acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts.
He cited the recent capture of Daesh commander Mohammad Sharifullah alias Jaffar, linked to the 2021 Kabul airport attack on US troops, as proof of Pakistan’s intelligence capabilities surpassing many global agencies.
Rejecting allegations from neighboring countries that Pakistan harbors militants, Malik reiterated that Pakistan itself remains a victim of terrorism, having endured years of extremist violence.
