Washington: The United States has halted the issuance of visas to Afghan citizens, as confirmed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This decision came shortly after an Afghan national was involved in a shooting near the White House, resulting in the death of a National Guard soldier and critically injuring another.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Secretary Rubio announced the pause on Afghan visas via the social platform X. He emphasized that the U.S. State Department has prioritized the safety of the nation and its citizens. A statement from the Department of State confirmed the immediate cessation of visa issuance for individuals traveling on Afghan passports.

The incident involved Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan man who entered the United States in 2021 under the Biden administration's Operation Allies Welcome program. Lakanwal was granted asylum earlier this year after applying for it last year. Reports indicate that he had passed all security checks before working with the CIA in Afghanistan and before his arrival in the U.S.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is currently treating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism.