Trump Imposes Travel Ban on 19 Countries From June 9

President Donald Trump has reinstated and expanded his controversial travel ban affecting 19 countries, with full entry bans on 12 nations and partial restrictions on seven others, starting June 9, 2025. The administration cites national security concerns, including weak vetting systems, high rates of visa overstays, and recent terror attacks such as the antisemitic incident in Boulder, Colorado, as justification for the policy. African countries are significantly impacted, with several facing full or partial bans, drawing criticism for disproportionately affecting the continent and raising questions about historical and diplomatic implications, especially regarding Sierra Leone. The travel ban also includes nations like Myanmar, Afghanistan, and Iran, many of which have experienced conflict or are governed by repressive regimes, thereby barring many individuals seeking refuge or new opportunities in the U.S. Critics argue the policy targets nationalities broadly rather than genuine security threats, forecasting extensive legal challenges reminiscent of Trump’s earlier travel restrictions. The president has defended the ban as a critical step to prevent terrorism and illegal immigration, stating the U.S. cannot permit open migration from countries that cannot reliably vet entrants.