In response to the tragic shooting that claimed the life of a National Guard member, Donald Trump has announced a suspension of asylum decisions for an indefinite period. The incident occurred near the White House on November 26, 2023, when an Afghan national allegedly opened fire, resulting in the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and injuring another guardsman, Andrew Wolfe.
During a press conference on Sunday, Trump stated that there would be “no time limit” on the asylum pause. The Department of Homeland Security is linking this policy to a list of 19 nations already subject to U.S. travel bans. “We don’t want those people,” Trump asserted, adding, “because many have been no good, and they shouldn’t be in our country.” He also emphasized his administration’s intention to “get them out of here.”
Details of the Shooting Incident
The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the shooting. Lakanwal had previously served in a CIA-supported unit in Afghanistan before relocating to the U.S. after the military withdrawal in 2021. He was granted asylum in April 2025 during Trump’s presidency, raising questions about the vetting process for Afghan migrants.
In the wake of the shooting, Trump has criticized President Joe Biden for what he calls “lax vetting” that allowed Lakanwal into the country during the chaotic Afghan airlift. Trump declared his intention to “permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries” to allow the U.S. immigration system to recover.
Impact on Asylum Policies
The proposed asylum moratorium would impact a list of countries, including Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, and Myanmar. These nations have faced increased scrutiny and travel restrictions from the U.S. in recent years. The incident and subsequent policy announcement have reignited discussions surrounding the Afghan resettlement process initiated under the Biden administration.
In a show of compassion, Trump invited the family of the fallen specialist Sarah Beckstrom to the White House. He recounted his conversation with her parents, offering them an opportunity to visit the executive mansion to honor their daughter. Trump also extended the invitation to the critically injured Andrew Wolfe, allowing him the chance to recover at the White House.
Vigils have been held throughout West Virginia, the home state of both Beckstrom and Wolfe, as communities come together to remember the fallen guardsman and support the recovery of her wounded comrade. The tragic events have intensified the ongoing debate over U.S. asylum policies and immigration reform, particularly regarding Afghan nationals.
The recent shooting has not only brought forth a national tragedy but has also raised significant questions about the future of U.S. immigration and asylum procedures. As the situation unfolds, the administration’s approach will likely continue to be a focal point of public discourse.
