U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping new executive order barring citizens from 12 countries and placing partial restrictions on nationals from seven more. The countries facing a full travel ban include Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Chad, Myanmar, Congo, Eritrea, and Equatorial Guinea. Meanwhile, partial restrictions apply to Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

Citing national security, foreign policy, and visa overstays, Trump justified the measure as a counterterrorism tool. The order was first outlined on January 20—his first day back in office—with final recommendations submitted by March 21. Trump tied the move to recent incidents, such as the Colorado rally attack by an Egyptian national, claiming they highlight dangers posed by unvetted foreign nationals.

Critics argue the policy revives discriminatory practices from Trump’s first term, including his 2017 “Muslim ban,” and could disproportionately harm immigrant communities. Representative Pramila Jayapal called it “a discriminatory policy that harms our economy and communities.”

The ban is part of a larger wave of immigration crackdowns, including efforts to restrict asylum access at the southern border and tighter controls on foreign student visas, notably at institutions like Harvard University. Trump’s proclamation also includes orders for enhanced visa applicant screening, such as reviewing social media history.

While Trump maintains the list could change depending on global developments, human rights groups warn of severe impacts on families and communities. The administration claims the ban is legal and within presidential national security powers—a stance previously upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.

This new travel ban comes as Trump fulfills campaign promises to tighten immigration from “terror-infested” regions, signaling a return to his earlier hardline policies.