US Suspends Afghan Immigration Following Washington, DC Shooting

The United States has indefinitely suspended all immigration processing for Afghan nationals after an attack in Washington, DC, left two National Guard members critically injured. Officials identified the suspect as a 29-year-old Afghan who arrived in the US in 2021 and was recently granted asylum.

The shooting took place Wednesday morning when the suspect approached two guardsmen from West Virginia and opened fire at close range. Responding officers returned fire, wounding and detaining the attacker. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive for the assault.

Federal law enforcement is treating the case as an attack on officers, with investigators also exploring potential terrorism links. The FBI and other agencies are coordinating to determine whether the suspect had any affiliations with extremist groups.

In response, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a halt on all Afghan immigration requests. Officials stated that the pause will remain in effect while security and vetting procedures are reassessed to prevent future threats.

The Department of Homeland Security noted that roughly 90,000 Afghans were resettled in the US under Operation Allies Welcome following the 2021 evacuation from Kabul. A recent government audit found that some arrivals were flagged on security watchlists either at entry or shortly afterward.

Political reactions have been sharp. Former President Donald Trump criticized the resettlement policy and called for a full review of Afghan arrivals. He stressed the need to remove individuals who may pose security risks or fail to contribute positively to the country.

The incident has also intensified debate over the deployment of National Guard units to various US cities. Critics argue such measures risk politicizing law enforcement, while supporters say they are necessary for public safety amid rising crime concerns.

As investigations continue, federal officials emphasized that Afghan immigration processing will remain suspended until comprehensive reviews of vetting and security measures are completed. Authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting both law enforcement personnel and the public.