Immigration Policy Shift Following National Security Concerns

The Trump administration on Wednesday defended its recent pause on immigration from 19 specific countries, framing the move as a necessary response to threats against American service members.

State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated that after two West Virginia National Guardsmen were attacked—one killed and another critically injured—President Donald Trump acted decisively. “From the very beginning of this administration,” Pigott asserted, “President Trump has launched an all-of-government approach to secure our borders.”

Pigott clarified that while strengthening the Southwest border was a priority from day one, securing visa controls represents another critical element of national security. He emphasized that entry evaluation processes are constantly being reviewed and improved.

“The fundamental understanding is that every single decision regarding these 19 countries is a national security decision,” Pigott stressed. The spokesperson contrasted this approach sharply with the previous administration’s handling of immigration laws, calling it “abuse” and stating their government has rectified these issues since day one of Trump’s second term.

Pigott specifically addressed concerns about lifting the pause on immigration from 19 countries, noting that timelines are being managed by the Department of Homeland Security. He firmly stated that immediate action was necessary following the attack against U.S. military personnel.