Trump Signs Sweeping Travel Ban Blocking Entry From 12 Nations
Trump Expands Travel Restrictions to 19 Nations
Former President Donald Trump has announced new travel restrictions affecting citizens from 19 countries, effective June 9. The ban blocks entry from nations such as Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen. Some immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories will also be restricted for citizens of countries like Cuba, Venezuela, and Laos.
Possible Ban on Egypt
Following a Colorado terror incident involving an Egyptian national, Trump warned that Egypt may be added to the list. “We don’t want ’em,” he said. He directed national security officials to review Egypt’s vetting systems. “The United States must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process,” Trump wrote in a proclamation.
National Security Justifications
Trump cited safety concerns, accusing countries on the list of failing to share security data or control visa overstays. “Iran regularly fails to cooperate with the United States Government… and has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals,” he wrote. He added, “Somalia is a terrorist safe haven,” and claimed that Haitian migrants bring “acute risks” to communities.
A Controversial but Familiar Policy
This marks a revival of Trump’s earlier travel ban, which the Supreme Court upheld in 2018 but was reversed by President Biden in 2021. Trump defended his decision: “During my first Administration, I restricted the entry of foreign nationals… which successfully prevented national security threats.” He emphasized, “The United States must ensure that admitted aliens… do not bear hostile attitudes toward its citizens… or support designated foreign terrorists.”
