Trump Administration Announces New US Travel Ban on Seven Countries, Palestinians
The White House said the restrictions, effective January 1, 2026, are based on security risks, weak screening systems and visa overstay concerns.
US President Donald Trump has further tightened immigration policy, citing national and public security concerns. In a major decision, the Trump administration announced a complete travel ban on seven countries and individuals holding Palestinian travel documents. Entry into the US has also been partially restricted for citizens of 15 other countries.
According to a fact sheet released by the White House, this new travel ban and entry restriction will take effect on January 1, 2026. The administration states that the countries targeted have weak visa screening systems, high rates of visa overstays, and pose a risk of terrorism-related activities.
Under the new measures, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria have been added to the list of countries subject to a complete travel ban. Additionally, Palestinians holding travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority are now completely barred from entering the United States.
Notably, Laos and Sierra Leone, which previously faced only partial restrictions, have now been added to the list of countries under a complete travel ban. This move brings the total number of countries subject to US travel bans or entry restrictions to 39.
The Trump administration maintains that this decision was made to ensure the safety of American citizens and strengthen the immigration system. However, the decision is expected to spark significant international debate and reactions.