The Trump administration is deliberating on imposing extensive travel restrictions for citizens of numerous countries, potentially including outright bans for select nations. Sources familiar with the matter and an internal memo obtained by Reuters have revealed this development.
The memo categorizes 41 countries into three distinct groups. The initial group comprises 10 countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Cuba, and North Korea, proposed for a complete visa suspension. The subsequent group involves five countries – Eritrea, Haiti, Laos, Myanmar, and South Sudan – facing partial suspensions affecting various visas, albeit with exceptions. The final group of 26 countries, including Belarus, Pakistan, and Turkmenistan, might encounter a partial U.S. visa issuance suspension if they fail to address specified deficiencies within 60 days.
While the list is subject to potential alterations and awaits approval from the administration, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, it mirrors President Donald Trump’s previous travel ban on individuals from seven predominantly Muslim countries. This policy, which underwent multiple revisions, was eventually upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.
Trump’s latest directive, issued through an executive order on January 20, mandates enhanced security vetting for foreign entrants to the U.S. to identify national security risks. The order tasks several cabinet members with submitting a list of countries by March 21 eligible for full or partial travel suspensions due to inadequate vetting and screening information.
This move aligns with Trump’s ongoing immigration crackdown initiated at the commencement of his second term. In a speech in October 2023, he hinted at restricting individuals from regions like the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, citing security concerns.
The State Department is yet to comment on these developments. The proposed restrictions signify a continuation of Trump’s stringent immigration policies, emblematic of his administration’s approach to border security and national defense.
As the situation evolves, it remains critical to monitor updates on the potential travel restrictions and their implications for affected countries and travelers worldwide.
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