WASHINGTON: In a major move aimed at strengthening national security, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order placing travel restrictions on citizens from 12 countries.
According to international news agencies, the countries affected by the new travel ban include Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
The White House stated that the purpose of the ban is to protect American citizens from “dangerous foreign elements” that may pose a threat to national security.
In a video message, President Trump cited a recent terrorist attack in Colorado as evidence that foreign nationals who are not properly verified can pose a serious risk to the country.
“This tragic incident highlights the urgent need to strengthen our immigration policies and secure our borders,” said Trump.
The new travel restrictions mark a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy and could have serious implications for citizens of the listed countries, particularly those seeking to enter the U.S. for study, work, or refuge.
In addition to the travel ban, President Trump has also imposed restrictions on student visas for foreign nationals at institutions like Harvard University.
The recent attack in Colorado involved an unidentified individual who opened fire during a pro-Israel rally, injuring six people. Authorities confirmed that the attacker, who shouted pro-Palestinian slogans during the incident, had entered the United States illegally.
Officials stated that the Colorado incident was a key factor in the urgent implementation of the travel ban.
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