Trump Reintroduces Controversial Travel Ban Targeting 12 Countries, Citing National Security

 

President Donald Trump has reintroduced a sweeping travel ban that blocks entry into the United States for citizens of 12 countries, citing national security concerns. The executive order, signed earlier this week, is set to take effect on Monday, June 9.

The countries named in the ban are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. The move comes in the wake of a terror attack allegedly carried out by an Egyptian national who overstayed his tourist visa—though Egypt was not included in the ban list.

“We can’t ignore the repeated threats that stem from poor border controls and expired visas,” Trump said during a press briefing. “This action is about protecting Americans and ensuring our immigration system prioritizes national security.”

The ban has reignited fierce public debate and drawn immediate condemnation from civil rights organizations and humanitarian groups. Critics argue that the measure unfairly targets citizens of nations already grappling with instability, conflict, and poverty, and could worsen diplomatic tensions.

“This ban is both discriminatory and harmful. It punishes innocent people while doing little to address the root causes of security issues,” said a spokesperson from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

The administration, however, maintains the order is both lawful and necessary. “We are confident this policy is both legal and necessary,” said Homeland Security Secretary Jessica Fenton. “We will continue to enforce it with full compliance to U.S. law.”

Legal experts anticipate that the new ban will face swift legal challenges, much like similar policies enacted during Trump’s first term. In 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a revised version of Trump’s original travel ban, setting a legal precedent that could shape upcoming court decisions.

Beyond the outright travel bans, the executive order also introduces heightened security measures for travelers from Nigeria, Pakistan, Venezuela, and Sri Lanka. Visitors from these countries will face enhanced background checks and stricter visa limitations, although they are not subject to a full ban.

The Trump administration insists the policy is not meant to target specific religions or regions, but rather to protect national security and strengthen vetting procedures.

As the implementation date approaches, immigrant communities, advocacy groups, and legal experts are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for possible legal action. The full impact of the order remains to be seen, particularly in a geopolitical climate where global cooperation on migration and security remains deeply fragile.