The Trump administration is exploring a travel ban affecting up to 43 countries, proposing a ‘red’ list of 11 nations barred from entry, along with an ‘orange’ list for regulated travel. Internal discussions are ongoing, with potential revisions anticipated before final implementation.
The Trump administration is contemplating a new travel ban affecting citizens from as many as 43 countries, aiming for broader restrictions compared to prior measures. A draft proposal outlines a classification of countries into three tiers, with a definitive “red” list of 11 nations whose citizens would be entirely prohibited from entering the United States. This list includes Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen.
Sources familiar with the discussions, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the topic, indicated that this preliminary document was created by the State Department weeks prior and is subject to revisions before final approval. Various officials, encompassing embassy staff and security experts from intelligence agencies, are currently evaluating the draft, assessing whether the characterizations of insecurity in specific nations are accurate and considering the potential repercussions of these restrictions on international cooperation.
The draft also proposes an “orange” list of 10 countries where travel would be regulated rather than banned outright. In these cases, affluent business travelers may be permitted entry, while restrictions would apply to individuals seeking to enter on immigrant or tourist visas.
Responses from both the State Department and security agencies will shape the finalization of this travel ban initiative, reflecting the complex interplay of security concerns and diplomatic relations.
In summary, the potential travel ban under consideration by the Trump administration could impact citizens from up to 43 countries, with a clear delineation of entry bans for the ‘red’ list nations. This internal draft is still under evaluation, with modifications anticipated before final approval, as officials deliberate on the implications for both national security and international relations.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com