President Trump has once again ignited global debate with a sweeping new travel ban, effective June 9, 2025. This time, the ban encompasses a total of 12 countries, fully restricting entry for immigrants and temporary visa holders from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Additionally, the proclamation places partial restrictions on Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, impacting those seeking permanent residency and certain temporary visas.
The White House defends the measure as a necessary step to protect national security, citing inadequate vetting processes and concerns over potential threats from these nations. Trump himself referenced a recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, involving a foreign national who overstayed his visa, as justification for the policy. "We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States," the President stated.
However, the omission of Pakistan from the list has raised numerous questions, especially given the country's long history of alleged ties to terrorist organizations. This is despite reports from earlier in the year that Pakistan was being considered for inclusion. During his first term, Trump maintained a hardline stance against Islamabad, frequently criticizing its role in fostering terrorism. This sudden shift has fueled speculation about the underlying reasons for Pakistan's exemption.
Several theories have emerged to explain this apparent contradiction. Some analysts suggest that the decision reflects a calculated geopolitical strategy. Pakistan's cooperation may be deemed essential for counterterrorism efforts in the region, or perhaps the U.S. seeks to maintain a working relationship to address other strategic interests.
Another theory posits that economic factors are at play. There are reports suggesting potential business ties between the Trump family and Pakistani entities, specifically involving a cryptocurrency firm called World Liberty Financial. This company openly associates itself with Trump and is reportedly co-owned by his sons.
Others, such as Indian geostrategist Brahma Chellaney, hint at the influence of the "Deep State" and anti-India sentiment within certain U.S. circles. According to this view, Pakistan is being shielded due to its perceived strategic importance, while other nations, like Myanmar (where the U.S. is reportedly supporting anti-junta rebels), are included to signal disapproval of their internal policies.
Adding fuel to the fire, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has suggested that any pressure exerted by the Trump administration during the recent conflict between India and Pakistan (referred to as "Operation Sindoor") was likely directed at Pakistan. Tharoor emphasized India's stance that dialogue with Pakistan is impossible while terrorism remains a threat.
The travel ban has already sparked widespread controversy and is expected to face legal challenges. Critics argue that it is discriminatory and unfairly targets individuals based on their nationality. The exemptions included in the proclamation, such as for U.S. permanent residents and certain family members of U.S. citizens, do little to quell these concerns. The ban is set to take effect on Monday, June 9, and its impact on international relations, immigration patterns, and the lives of countless individuals remains to be seen.
