President Donald Trump has revived his controversial travel ban policy, citing national security threats to justify barring entry for nationals from 12 countries and imposing tighter restrictions on seven others. The new proclamation, effective June 9, provides exceptions for certain visa holders, lawful permanent residents, athletes, and team members attending major sporting events hosted by the U.S. Trump’s original travel ban, issued shortly after his 2017 inauguration, initially targeted Muslim-majority countries, sparking widespread chaos and protests. Despite legal challenges, the Supreme Court upheld the ban in 2018 until President Joe Biden repealed it in 2021.

The recent travel ban follows an executive order directing security assessments of countries. The proclamation suspends entry for nationals from countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, and Yemen, citing terrorism links and lack of cooperation with the U.S. in law enforcement matters. Trump emphasized the need for stricter vetting processes to prevent threats like the recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, involving an attacker who overstayed a visa. The President criticized Biden’s immigration policies and reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the country, highlighting the success of his previous travel restrictions in preventing potential terror attacks. Trump signaled a willingness to expand the list of restricted countries as new threats emerge, emphasizing the importance of keeping America safe.