The United States has indefinitely halted all immigration requests from Afghan nationals following a shooting near the White House that left two National Guard members critically injured. President Donald Trump described the shooting as an “act of terror” and called for a full review of such nationals admitted during the Biden administration.
Last night a gunman identified as a 29-year-old Afghan national opened fire just blocks from the White House, critically wounding two National Guard members on patrol. The suspect was wounded and taken into custody; authorities say motive remains unclear as… pic.twitter.com/p2R42BhAId
— Buzz Alerts (@BuzzAlertsLive) November 27, 2025
US Citizenship and Immigration Services Orders Pause
Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols.
The protection and safety of our homeland and of the American people remains our singular focus and…
— USCIS (@USCIS) November 27, 2025
Suspect’s Background Under Investigation
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, reportedly entered the US in 2021 through the Operation Allies Welcome programme. This initiative evacuated tens of thousands of Afghans after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. While his identity is still being verified, the motive for the attack remains unclear. One law enforcement official confirmed that the suspect in custody was also shot but sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
