In a major policy move, former President Donald Trump has reintroduced and expanded his controversial travel ban, this time targeting 12 countries with full entry restrictions and placing partial limitations on seven others. The ban, set to take effect on June 9, 2025, has reignited debate over immigration, national security, and civil liberties. According to the proclamation, citizens of countries such as Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Afghanistan will be completely barred from entering the United States under any visa category.
The Trump campaign justified the decision by citing national security risks, inadequate vetting procedures, and recent domestic incidents involving foreign nationals. Notably, a gasoline bomb attack during a protest in Boulder, Colorado was used to highlight potential threats. Trump stated that the government must prioritize the safety of American citizens and that this ban is a proactive measure to prevent future attacks and infiltration by extremist elements.
In addition to the 12 fully banned nations, seven more—including Cuba, Venezuela, and Turkmenistan—face partial restrictions. These vary by visa type, targeting immigrant, tourist, and student visas while still allowing limited forms of travel such as business visits. The administration has clarified that individuals with existing valid visas issued before the effective date will still be allowed entry, reducing the immediate impact on those already in transit or awaiting travel.
There are some key exemptions in the ban. U.S. green card holders, dual citizens, close relatives of Americans, and some athletes or coaches may still qualify for entry under certain conditions. Refugees previously approved for relocation, particularly persecuted minorities from Iran or U.S. allies from Afghanistan, are also exempt. Still, human rights organizations argue that the policy’s scope disproportionately affects vulnerable populations fleeing conflict or repression.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions globally. Somalia expressed willingness to work with the U.S. to resolve security concerns, while Venezuela’s government condemned the action as “fascist.” Legal analysts anticipate a series of court challenges, similar to the legal pushback Trump faced during his first term. As the policy rolls out, attention will be on how it shapes immigration enforcement and foreign relations in the lead-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
