Donald Trump Considering Adding Another 36 Countries To Travel Ban List

Potential Expansion of Travel Restrictions Under Trump Administration

The Trump administration is reportedly exploring the possibility of extending its controversial travel restrictions to include an additional 36 countries. This development comes on the heels of a recent proclamation signed by President Donald Trump that already bans entry from an initial 12 nations while imposing partial restrictions on seven others. According to a confidential cable from the State Department, acquired by Reuters, these measures are framed as necessary steps to bolster national security amidst ongoing concerns about terrorism and inadequate identification processes. This move has not only stirred debates within the U.S. but has also sparked reactions worldwide, raising questions about the implications of such restrictive policies on international relations.

Current Travel Bans and Their Justifications

The current travel ban, which took effect on June 9, 2025, includes countries such as Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. In addition, seven other nations—Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—are facing partial restrictions. The Trump administration cites terrorism and the risks associated with admitting travelers from regions with a significant terrorist presence as the primary justifications for these bans. The administration points to several incidents, including high-profile terrorist attacks and foiled plots, as evidence for the need for comprehensive vetting processes. In a recent statement shared via video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Trump articulated his administration’s resolve to prevent entry from groups that could potentially harm the United States, emphasizing the need for rigorous vetting and the protection of American citizens.

Proposed Expansion: Countries Under Consideration

The newly proposed list of 36 countries under consideration for travel restrictions features nations such as Angola, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Egypt, and Syria. The internal memo, signed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, outlines that these countries are given a 60-day timeframe to address U.S. concerns or risk being added to the list of nations facing a travel ban. The concerns highlighted by the memo include issues related to passport fraud, insufficient cooperation with U.S. authorities in deporting nationals who have been ordered removed, and elevated rates of visa overstays. For example, Nigeria, which has faced scrutiny for issues related to document verification and visa overstays, has been particularly vocal about its position, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment in regard to high numbers of Nigerians who study and work in the United States. The memorandum elaborates that the Department has identified specific benchmarks that these countries must meet to avoid suspension of entry, further complicating diplomatic relations.

Specific Cases and Their Implications

One noteworthy case that has drawn attention involves Egyptian national Mohamed Sabry Soliman. He was arrested for allegedly throwing a gasoline bomb at a pro-Israel protest in Boulder, Colorado. Soliman reportedly overstayed his visa and was in possession of an expired work permit, prompting discussions about the implications of entry policies and national security measures. This incident not only emphasizes the challenges of tracking individuals who overstay their visas but also ignites debates regarding the effectiveness of visa vetting processes in preventing such occurrences. A senior official from the State Department, speaking anonymously, noted that the administration is committed to consistently reassessing its policies to ensure the safety of American citizens and enforce compliance with immigration laws. Such cases highlight the complex intersection of immigration protocols and national security strategies, raising the stakes for both affected individuals and policymakers alike.

Broader Context: Immigration Policies Under Trump

This potential expansion of travel restrictions is part of a larger trend seen during President Trump’s second term, characterized by a rigorous crackdown on immigration. The administration’s approach has entailed not only the deportation of individuals suspected of gang affiliations but also the tightening of visa requirements for international students seeking to study in the United States. For instance, new regulations that were implemented mandated international students to provide more rigorous documentation of their financial support and educational intent. The administration argues that these actions are crucial for maintaining national security, as well as ensuring that those who wish to enter the U.S. are appropriately vetted. Critics, however, warn that such policies can have a detrimental impact on international relations and may lead to unintended consequences for diplomatic ties. They state that these restrictions may deter talented individuals from pursuing educational and career opportunities, further isolating the U.S. on the global stage.

Responses from Affected Nations and International Bodies

In response to the proposed travel restrictions, the African Union has voiced its concerns, urging the United States to reconsider its approach. The organization advocates for a framework that emphasizes constructive dialogue with the countries implicated in the travel ban. Officials from Somalia and Venezuela have also expressed their apprehensions, characterizing the policies as both unfair and damaging to their nations. The diplomatic fallout from such measures could lead to strained relationships, particularly with nations that have previously cooperated with the U.S. on various fronts, including counterterrorism efforts. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, recognizing that the implications of such travel restrictions extend beyond individual nations and into broader geopolitical dynamics.

Looking Ahead: The Future of U.S. Immigration Policy

President Trump, who previously enacted a travel ban during his first term—a decision that was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018—has indicated that the list of banned countries may continue to expand as the administration seeks to tighten its immigration policies. “We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States,” he stated, underscoring the administration’s commitment to ensuring national safety while navigating the complex landscape of immigration. This ongoing dialogue about travel restrictions, immigration reform, and national security will likely resonate in the political arena, influencing upcoming elections and reshaping public opinion on the issues at stake. As other countries consider their own immigration and travel policies in light of U.S. measures, the reciprocal relationship between global migration trends and national policies will further evolve.

Conclusion

The evolving nature of travel restrictions under the Trump administration highlights the intricate balance between national security and international diplomacy. As new countries are considered for inclusion in the travel ban, the implications for foreign relations and the individuals affected by these policies remain significant. The ongoing discussions surrounding these restrictions will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of U.S. immigration policy and its global impact. With international backlash and domestic controversy surrounding these measures, the administration will need to navigate the complexities of national security while fostering constructive relations with countries around the globe.