Things just tightened up big-time for travelers from twelve nations hoping to step onto U.S. soil-as a result of yet another immigration sweep by former President Donald Trump.
So, Who Faces the Travel Block?
Trump claims the nations are either linked to “”terrorist threats”” or have sky-high visa-overstay records. Most sit in the Middle East and Africa, yet one Southeast Asian state-Myanmar-also makes the cut. Here they are in full:
- Afghanistan
- Myanmar
- Chad
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
That is twelve countries whose citizens now find themselves barred from reaching America for an unknown stretch of time.
Wait, There’s More-Seven Countries on a Watchlist
Beyond the headline ban, the Trump White House rolled out tighter rules for another batch of countries:
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
Folks arriving from these places aren t shut out entirely, but officials treat their paperwork with extra skepticism and visas come in smaller batches.
The Backlash Is Real
World leaders aren t staying quiet. Chad s President Mahamat Idriss D-by Itno shot back that his nation may lack jets and billions but has plenty of dignity.
Called the watchlist cruel and unconstitutional, arguing that people fleeing wars and violence should be welcomed, not turned away at the border.
What Does Trump Say He’s Up To?
In his view, the move is about guarding America from what he calls foreign terrorist threats. Critics say thats really just fear-mongering and pointed discrimination. They argue the numbers dont support his fears, yet the rule still zeros in on specific countries and religious communities.
Already Seen This Movie?
Trump is no rookie when it comes to travel bans. During his first term he rolled out the so-called Muslim ban and the world erupted in protest. So this latest order feels like an old script to a lot of people.
Bottom-Line Take-Away
Support it or rail against it, the new policy is already stirring global anger and debate. From diplomatic rebukes to viral tweets, this issue isnt fading away quietly. Most important, thousands of hopeful migrants see their dreams hanging in the balance, and the stakes couldnt be higher.