The Trump administration is reportedly considering significant new travel restrictions targeting citizens from over 40 countries, echoing the controversial “Muslim ban” from Trump’s first term, according to widespread media reports.
An internal memo groups these countries into three categories, with nations like Afghanistan, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria facing full visa suspensions. Other countries, including Eritrea, Haiti, Laos, Myanmar, and South Sudan, could experience partial suspensions affecting tourist, student, and immigrant visas.
Additional nations, such as Belarus and Pakistan, may face partial visa suspensions unless they address identified security vetting deficiencies within two months.
This move aligns with Trump’s renewed immigration crackdown, following his earlier pledge to restrict immigration from regions he considers security threats. It’s reminiscent of his previous immigration policies targeting predominantly Muslim countries, which sparked widespread criticism and legal challenges.
Moreover, the administration is simultaneously targeting foreign-born students and graduates accused of supporting groups labeled as terrorist entities or opposing U.S. policy, revoking their visas and deporting them.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that residing in the U.S. is a privilege that can be withdrawn for advocating violence or terrorism, underscoring the administration’s intensified approach to immigration enforcement and national security.
