New Travel Ban Enacted by Trump Administration
Former President Donald Trump has implemented a travel ban affecting visitors from 12 countries, while imposing partial restrictions on travelers from seven additional nations. This action is part of his broader approach to strengthening U.S. border security.
Countries Affected by the New Restrictions
Under the new directive, individuals from Afghanistan, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen are now prohibited from entering the United States. Additionally, travelers from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will face limited travel access.
Official Statement from the White House
White House Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson confirmed the new policy, emphasizing that the restrictions are tailored to specific countries. She noted the criteria include inadequate security screening processes, high rates of visa overstays, and insufficient cooperation in sharing identity or threat information. According to Jackson, the administration’s primary goal is to safeguard American citizens.
Historical Context of U.S. Travel Bans
This latest move echoes a similar travel restriction from Trump’s first term, which targeted several majority-Muslim countries. That earlier ban faced legal challenges but was ultimately upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018. President Joe Biden later reversed the policy in 2021, describing it as contrary to American values.