ISLAMABAD: 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 certain travel restrictions may be introduced.
His remarks follow reports suggesting that the US administration under President Donald Trump is considering new travel restrictions, potentially affecting Pakistan and Afghanistan, as part of a security and vetting review.
These proposed restrictions are said to resemble those implemented during Trump’s first term, which targeted several Muslim-majority countries.
Malik acknowledged US concerns over the recent surge in terrorism-related incidents in Pakistan but reaffirmed that no outright travel ban has been imposed.
He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing counterterrorism efforts in response to the latest US travel advisory, issued on Saturday, which urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to security risks.
The US State Department’s Level 3 travel advisory warns of an unpredictable security situation, with potential attacks on civilian and government targets, including transportation hubs, markets, military sites, and public spaces.
This advisory follows the release of the Global Terrorism Index 2025, which ranked Pakistan as the world’s second-most terrorism-affected country in 2024.
According to the report, terrorism-related deaths in Pakistan surged by 45%, rising from 748 in 2023 to 1,081 in 2024. The number of terror attacks also doubled, surpassing 1,000 for the first time since the index was introduced.
Malik stressed the urgency of strengthening counterterrorism cooperation, noting that Pakistan must improve its security framework in collaboration with international allies.
He pointed out that weapons and ammunition left behind after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan have been used against Pakistan, fueling cross-border terrorism.
The minister warned that the rising tide of militancy poses not only a threat to Pakistan but could also destabilize the wider region and impact US interests.
