Trump Travel Ban Could Expand to 36 More Nations, State Department Memo Reveals
The Trump travel ban may soon widen, as the administration considers restricting entry from 36 additional countries. An internal State Department cable, obtained by Reuters, details the plan. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump issued a proclamation banning citizens from 12 nations, citing terrorism and national security threats. This proposal would mark a major escalation in his second-term immigration crackdown.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed the cable, which highlights several concerns. These include weak passport systems, refusal to accept deported citizens, and poor government infrastructure for verifying identity documents.
The memo also notes that some nationals from the listed countries have ties to terrorism, anti-American actions, or antisemitic incidents. However, it emphasizes that each country faces different levels of concern.
The document gives the 36 countries a 60-day deadline. During that time, they must meet specific standards for document security and deportation cooperation. Failure to do so could lead to full or partial entry bans.
“The Department has identified 36 countries of concern that might be recommended for suspension of entry if they do not meet established requirements,” the cable states.
A senior State Department official confirmed that national security remains a top priority. “We regularly review these policies to protect Americans,” the official said.
The countries facing possible restrictions include Angola, Cambodia, Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Syria, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Many others from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific are also on the list.
Currently, the Trump travel ban includes Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen. These nations face full bans, while partial restrictions apply to Venezuela, Cuba, and Laos.
Trump Travel Ban Remains Key to Immigration Strategy
The Trump travel ban was a cornerstone of his first term and remains central in his second-term agenda. Trump continues to push for tighter visa rules and aggressive deportations. He argues that strong immigration control is essential to American safety and values.
Critics warn that these policies may harm U.S. relations abroad and violate civil liberties. Human rights groups say the ban targets vulnerable populations and risks fueling xenophobia. As the 2025 election approaches, debates around the travel ban and broader immigration policy are expected to grow louder.
