Trump's New Travel Ban: A Controversial Measure Faces Global Backlash

In a renewed effort citing national security, former President Donald Trump has instituted a travel ban affecting 12 countries, a move that has already triggered legal reviews and widespread criticism.

Donald Trump has reinstated a controversial travel ban as he signed a proclamation prohibiting entry into the United States for nationals from 12 countries, which include Afghanistan, Iran, and Haiti. The policy, announced by the White House, is aimed at addressing alleged security threats and cites "common sense restrictions" for the safety of Americans. Additionally, travel from seven other countries will face partial restrictions.

Trump indicated that the list might change if "material improvements" are observed or if new threats emerge globally. This marks the second time he has enacted such a ban, the original being implemented during his 2017 presidency.

The ban will take effect on Monday at 12:01 AM, well in advance of anticipated chaos prevalent during the rollout of the first travel restrictions. Countries listed in the ban are: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Meanwhile, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will face more limited travel restrictions.

The administration pointed to a recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, allegedly involving an Egyptian national, as a justification for the travel ban. Critics, however, noted the absence of Egypt from the list, raising concerns over fairness and effectiveness.

Exemptions to the ban exist for certain individuals, including athletes heading to major sporting events and Afghan nationals holding Special Immigrant Visas. The Secretary of State has the authority to grant case-by-case exemptions deemed in the national interest.

Reactions to the ban have been swift and critical. Countries like Somalia expressed commitment to address mutual security concerns, while Venezuelan officials cautioned against the risks for their citizens within the U.S. Democrats and human rights organizations labeled the move as a discriminatory and punitive measure, pointing to its similarities with Trump's previous "Muslim ban."

In 2017, Trump's first travel ban faced heavy backlash and legal challenges, being dubbed a "Muslim ban" for its targeting of predominantly Muslim countries. While the Supreme Court upheld a revised version of the ban in 2018, President Joe Biden later repealed it in 2021, branding it as a significant moral failing. The latest ban is expected to encounter similar levels of public resistance and legal scrutiny.