U.S. Suspends Immigration Applications for 19 Nations Following Attack

The United States has temporarily stopped processing immigration and asylum applications for citizens of 19 countries. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the suspension this week. The agency linked the decision directly to a recent incident in which two U.S. National Guard members were shot. Officials described the 19 nations as presenting a "high risk" to national security, though they did not publicly name them. The policy means USCIS will not accept or decide on applications from these countries. This includes requests for asylum, green cards, and work permits. Applications already filed will be placed on hold. The suspension applies regardless of where the applicant currently lives. It is a temporary measure, but officials have not stated how long it will last.