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The Trump administration's immigration crackdown has entered a new phase, with internal documents revealing plans to potentially ban citizens from 36 additional countries. This dramatic expansion would represent one of the most sweeping travel restriction policies in modern American history.
Earlier this month, President Trump implemented travel bans affecting 12 countries, citing national security concerns about "foreign terrorists." The initial restrictions targeted Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Seven additional nations—Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—faced partial entry restrictions.
This foundation built upon Trump's first-term travel ban targeting seven Muslim-majority nations. That controversial policy underwent multiple legal challenges before the Supreme Court upheld it in 2018.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed an internal diplomatic cable outlining specific concerns about the 36 countries under review. "The Department has identified 36 countries of concern that might be recommended for full or partial suspension of entry if they do not meet established benchmarks and requirements within 60 days," the weekend memo stated.
The targeted nations span multiple continents. Africa dominates the list with 25 countries, including major partners like Egypt and Nigeria. Caribbean nations such as Antigua and Barbuda face scrutiny alongside Asian countries like Cambodia and Pacific island states including Tonga.
The State Department cited multiple security deficiencies justifying potential restrictions. Officials expressed concern about governments lacking "competent or cooperative central government authority" to produce reliable identity documents. "Questionable security" of passport systems raised additional red flags.
Some nations allegedly failed to cooperate in removing their nationals ordered deported from America. Visa overstays by citizens from certain countries triggered further scrutiny. The memo also referenced instances of terrorism, antisemitic activities, and anti-American behavior by nationals from specific countries.
The diplomatic cable included a notable caveat offering potential relief. Countries willing to accept third-country nationals being removed from the United States could address other concerns. This provision suggests the administration views deportation cooperation as a primary diplomatic tool.
"We are constantly reevaluating policies to ensure the safety of Americans and that foreign nationals follow our laws," a senior State Department official stated, declining to comment on internal deliberations.
These potential restrictions align with Trump's comprehensive immigration agenda launched at his second term's beginning. The administration has deported hundreds of suspected Venezuelan gang members to El Salvador. Universities face restrictions on foreign student enrollments, with some facing deportation threats.
Trump characterized his approach as implementing the "largest mass deportation operation" in American history. The strategy targets undocumented immigrants while revoking visas and humanitarian protections for thousands.
The 36 countries have until Wednesday at 8 a.m. to submit initial action plans addressing State Department requirements. This compressed timeline reflects the administration's aggressive approach to immigration enforcement.
The potential expansion would affect millions of citizens from nations across Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and Oceania. Many targeted countries maintain significant diplomatic and economic relationships with America, raising questions about broader foreign policy implications.
