Claim:
US President Donald Trump has implemented a travel ban on nationals from 12 countries, citing national security and screening concerns.
Verdict: True
What Happened:
A viral claim circulating on social media platforms suggests that US President Donald Trump has barred entry of nationals from 12 countries under a new travel ban in 2025. This is being widely discussed across political forums and news portals with references to national security and visa overstays.
Verification:
- According to a June 2025 proclamation by the White House, President Trump implemented a travel restriction targeting 12 nations, labeling them as “deficient” in passport controls, cooperation on deportations, and proper vetting procedures.
- A White House spokesperson, Abigail Jackson, confirmed the move on social platform X, stating: “President Trump is fulfilling his promise to protect Americans from dangerous foreign actors that want to come to our country and cause us harm.”
- This move echoes the 2017 travel ban during Trump’s first term, initially affecting seven Muslim-majority countries, later upheld by the Supreme Court.
- President Joe Biden had revoked the original travel ban in 2021, calling it “a stain on our national conscience.” However, Trump has now revived and expanded the policy upon his return to office in 2025.
Who is on the list?
So far, the White House has publicly listed Afghanistan among the 12 banned countries, citing:
- Taliban control and lack of reliable government
- Poor vetting procedures
- No cooperation in repatriation
The full list of all 12 countries has not yet been officially released. However, multiple sources indicate that the list likely includes some countries previously affected by Trump’s 2017 travel ban (e.g., Iran, Syria, Yemen, Somalia) as well as new entries based on 2025 security assessments.
Context:
- The move is part of Trump’s renewed focus on immigration and national security, especially leading into his second term.
- Immigration and travel reform have become focal issues post-2024 elections, with emphasis on screening loopholes, visa overstays, and removal resistance.
Conclusion:
True – President Donald Trump has implemented a new travel ban affecting nationals from 12 countries, including Afghanistan. While the entire list is yet to be made public, the White House has confirmed the action citing national security concerns.