Trump Reinstates US Travel Ban, Bars Citizens of 12 Countries

By James, Admin
June 5, 2025 – 3:00 PM CST, Chicago, IL

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation today reinstating a controversial travel ban, barring citizens of 12 countries from entering the U.S., effective June 9, 2025. Reuters reports the targeted nations are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Trump cited national security, claiming the move protects against “foreign terrorists” and border threats.

This executive action echoes Trump’s 2017 travel ban, which sparked protests and legal battles. That policy, revised multiple times, targeted Muslim-majority nations, drawing accusations of discrimination. The 2025 version expands the list, adding countries like Haiti and Eritrea, and revives a hardline stance from Trump’s second term, inaugurated in January 2025.

The White House released a statement on June 5, defending the ban. “We must secure our borders from radicals and chaos,” Trump said, pointing to intelligence reports of terrorism risks. Officials claim the listed countries fail to meet vetting standards, sharing inadequate data on travelers. Critics, however, question the evidence, noting sparse details in public briefings.

The 12 nations vary widely in context. Afghanistan, Somalia, and Yemen face ongoing insurgencies, while Iran remains a geopolitical foe. Haiti grapples with political instability, and Eritrea’s authoritarian regime limits cooperation. The inclusion of Chad and Equatorial Guinea, however, puzzles experts, as both have aided U.S. counterterrorism efforts.

Legal challenges are already mounting. The ACLU vowed to sue, calling the ban “cruel and baseless” in a statement today. During Trump’s first term, courts struck down early versions of the ban, though a revised 2018 policy was upheld by the Supreme Court in a 5-4 ruling. New litigation could test Trump’s broader 2025 authority.

Immigrant communities are bracing for impact. Families in the U.S. fear separation from relatives abroad, especially in Haiti and Sudan, where crises drive migration. “My sister in Port-au-Prince can’t visit now,” said Marie Joseph, a Miami resident, in a CNN interview. Refugee advocates warn asylum seekers will face heightened barriers.

Businesses are concerned, too. Tech firms, universities, and hospitals rely on talent from affected countries. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce cautioned that the ban could disrupt innovation and labor. “We risk losing scientists, engineers, and doctors,” said spokesperson Lisa Tran, citing 2017’s economic ripple effects.

Global reaction is sharp. Iran condemned the ban as “hostile,” per state media, while Somalia’s foreign minister urged dialogue. European allies, wary of Trump’s “America First” pivot, expressed unease. “This strains partnerships,” said French diplomat Claire Dupont, hinting at retaliatory visa policies.

Public opinion is divided. A Gallup poll on released today, showed 51% of Americans support the ban, citing security, while 44% oppose it, decrying bias. Protests erupted in cities like New York and Los Angeles, with signs reading “No Ban, No Wall.” Counter-rallies backed Trump, chanting “Secure the Border.”

The ban’s logistics are daunting. Starting June 9, visas for citizens of the 12 countries will be revoked or denied, with exceptions for diplomatic travel unclear. Customs and Border Protection is ramping up, but officials admit screening delays could snarl airports. “We’re preparing, but it’s complex,” an agency source told Reuters.

Security experts are split. Former CIA analyst John Brennan called the ban “blunt and counterproductive,” arguing it alienates allies and fuels extremist propaganda. Others, like ex-Homeland Security official Mark Grady, praise it, saying, “Vetting gaps are real; this plugs them.” No specific terror plots tied to the countries were cited.

Humanitarian fallout looms large. Yemen and Haiti, already in crisis, face aid disruptions if U.S.-based workers can’t travel. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees warned on June 5 of a “chilling effect” on refugees. Thousands in limbo may be stranded, advocates say.

Trump’s base sees this as a promise kept. During his 2024 campaign, he vowed to tighten borders, blaming Biden-era policies for migration surges. Supporters on X cheered, with #TravelBan2025 trending by evening. Critics, however, see a political ploy to rally voters ahead of midterms.

Implementation hinges on execution. The 2017 ban caused chaos—detentions, deportations, confusion—before revisions. The White House claims better planning this time, but skeptics doubt it. “Agencies are stretched thin,” said policy analyst Sarah Kim, predicting legal and logistical snags.

Long-term, the ban could reshape U.S. ties. Trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange with the 12 nations may suffer. China and Russia, eyeing influence, could step in, warns Dupont. Domestic unity, already fragile, faces strain as debate intensifies.

The road ahead is uncertain. If courts block the ban, Trump may double down with new orders. If upheld, it could redefine immigration policy for years.