US Plans Major Expansion of Travel Ban to Over 30 Countries

• Trump reviewing list of countries for expanded restrictions: Kristi Noem.
• DHS cites unstable governments and weak vetting systems.
• Move signals deeper escalation of US immigration measures.

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The United States plans to expand its travel ban to more than 30 countries, US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on Thursday. She made the remarks during an interview on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle.”

Noem was asked whether President Donald Trump intended to increase the restricted countries to 32. She did not confirm the final number. However, she said the updated list already includes “over 30” nations and that the president continues to review additional countries.

Earlier Ban Already Covered 19 Countries

In June, Trump signed a proclamation barring citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States. He also imposed partial restrictions on seven others. The administration justified the move as necessary to prevent entry by individuals who could pose security threats.

The restrictions apply to immigrants and non-immigrants, including students, tourists, and business travellers. Despite growing concern from rights groups, the White House continues to defend the measures as essential for national security.

Countries With Weak Vetting May Be Targeted

Noem did not identify the countries likely to be added. She explained that nations lacking stable governments or proper identification systems could face bans. According to her, the United States requires reliable cooperation to verify individuals seeking entry.

“If a country cannot help us vet people, why should we allow their citizens to come here?” she said.

Internal Cable Hinted at Broader Expansion

Earlier, Reuters reported that the administration was considering adding citizens of 36 additional countries. The information came from an internal State Department cable that assessed risk and vetting capabilities.

The expanded list would intensify the administration’s immigration measures. It follows last week’s shooting in Washington, DC, which resulted in the deaths of two National Guard members.

Shooting Case Accelerates Policy Shift

Investigators say the suspect, an Afghan national, entered the US in 2021 through a resettlement program. After the incident, Trump pledged to “permanently pause” migration from what he called “Third World Countries,” though he did not specify which nations fall under that category.

This pledge came days after the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Trump had ordered a review of asylum cases approved during Joe Biden’s presidency. The review also includes Green Cards issued to citizens of 19 nations.

Trump Intensifies Immigration Crackdown

Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has sharply escalated immigration enforcement. Federal agents have been deployed to major cities. Authorities have also increased rejections of asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border.

The administration frequently highlights its deportation efforts. Yet, until now, it placed less attention on reshaping legal immigration. The expansion of the travel ban marks a significant shift in that direction.

End Note

The updated list of restricted countries is expected to spark global debate. However, the administration insists the measures are designed to protect US citizens. More details are likely once the review process concludes.https://globiscope.com

Hitan Mehta appointed CEO of British Asian Trust