Donald Trump just signed off on a sweeping new travel ban, shutting down entry into the United States for people from 19 different countries. The move, announced Wednesday evening, is being pushed as a national security measure, but critics say it targets vulnerable communities and could have long-term humanitarian fallout.
Twelve countries face full entry bans, including places like Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, and Somalia. Another seven, like Cuba, Laos, and Venezuela, are subject to partial restrictions. The ban kicks in at 12:01 a.m. on June 9th.
The White House says the order makes exceptions for green card holders, existing visa holders, and those whose entry benefits U.S. interests. Still, many are calling it a return to Trump-era policies that were previously rolled back under President Biden. This latest move came just days after a violent antisemitic attack in Colorado, although the suspect in that incident was from Egypt, a country not included in the ban. Critics argue the ban was politically motivated, not based on direct threats.
Some experts and humanitarian groups warn the ban could put thousands of lives at risk, especially Afghans who helped the U.S. military during the war. While Special Immigrant Visa holders are technically exempt, countless others still face dangerous limbo.
International backlash has already started. Venezuelan officials blasted the U.S. as unsafe, while groups like Oxfam called the policy discriminatory and fear-driven.
For many, this proclamation is less about protection and more about reviving old tactics. As debates reignite, families across the globe now face even more barriers to safety and opportunity in the U.S.
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