SILVER SPRING, Md. — President Trump signed a proclamation Wednesday expanding his administration’s controversial travel ban, imposing new restrictions on nationals from 19 countries, including a full entry ban on citizens of 12 nations. The policy, set to take effect June 9, has drawn sharp criticism from immigrant advocates and faith-based organizations who argue it undermines American values of refuge and opportunity.
Broadened Restrictions Target Multiple Nations
The updated ban fully bars entry for citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Additionally, travelers from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will face partial restrictions.
This marks the latest iteration of the administration’s travel ban policy, which has faced legal challenges and widespread condemnation since its initial rollout in 2017. Critics argue the measures unfairly target Muslim-majority nations and exacerbate hardships for vulnerable populations seeking safety or family reunification in the U.S.
Faith Leaders Condemn Policy as Contrary to Moral Values
Anna Gallagher, executive director of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC), condemned the proclamation, citing Catholic social teaching on the dignity of migrants.
“As Catholics, we are called to uphold the dignity of all people, regardless of nationality,” Gallagher said. “Pope Francis reminds us that migrants are not a threat but a blessing. This policy turns away those fleeing violence and persecution, contradicting our faith’s call to welcome the stranger with compassion.”
Gallagher emphasized the ban’s human cost, particularly for families separated by immigration barriers. “We’ve already seen the devastating effects of previous bans—loved ones kept apart, refugees stranded in danger. This expansion will only deepen the harm,” she said.
Continuation of a Controversial Policy
The Trump administration has defended travel restrictions as necessary for national security, though critics argue they disproportionately affect marginalized groups without evidence of reducing threats. Legal challenges to earlier versions of the ban culminated in a 2018 Supreme Court ruling upholding the policy’s third iteration.
Advocacy groups, including CLINIC, vow to continue fighting for immigrant rights and family reunification. “We urge leaders to embrace policies rooted in justice and mercy,” Gallagher said. “The U.S. must remain a beacon of hope for those seeking safety and a better life.”
The new restrictions take effect next month, with exemptions expected for certain visa categories. Legal experts anticipate further court battles as advocacy organizations explore challenges to the expanded ban.
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