State Department Spokesperson Defends Trump Immigration Pause Amid National Security Crisis

As part of ongoing efforts to address national security concerns following a deadly terrorist attack on two West Virginia National Guardsmen—one killed and another critically injured—the administration has taken decisive action. This move includes a temporary halt on immigration applications from residents in 19 specific countries, measures that are being framed as essential steps toward ensuring safety for American citizens.

It is critical to understand the gravity of this situation: no one should doubt the commitment to protecting our borders and people through common-sense policies after such an attack occurs against state security personnel. President Donald Trump acted swiftly from day one to strengthen border controls, which goes far beyond physical barriers at the southern edge of the nation—this is about securing every possible avenue into this country with rigorous vetting procedures.

The State Department’s Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized that these decisions are rooted in a fundamental principle: “every decision we make is a national security decision.” He noted that processes for evaluating visa applications are constantly revisited to prevent risks and improve safety standards, saying it’s basic logic that those granted entry must not pose a threat.

When asked about potential timelines for lifting the pause on immigration from these 19 countries, Pigott firmly deferred specifics to the Department of Homeland Security while highlighting how quickly actions were implemented under this administration: “actions we’ve taken were done immediately.” He added, however, that he won’t preview exactly when the pause will conclude—instead, focusing attention on what must be done next.

Pigott contrasted the current administration’s efforts with past missteps: “we saw an abuse of our immigration laws under the previous administration,” he declared. This administration is now putting those abuses behind us and making sure every person in America or applying to enter won’t harm citizens, which is more than just a policy—it’s a necessity for survival in today’s dangerous world.