U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks at a news conference at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on Nov. 22, 2025. (AP Photo)
The Trump administration plans a major expansion of its travel ban. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem says the list will grow to more than 30 countries. She shared the news during a Thursday night interview. The move follows the recent shooting of two National Guard members in Washington.
A Broader Ban in the Works
The government already introduced a travel ban in June. That policy blocked citizens from 12 countries and added limits for people from seven others. After the November shooting involving a man from Afghanistan, officials tightened rules for 19 countries. Those countries include Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia and Haiti.
Noem says the new ban will reach beyond that group. She did not share exact names or details. She says President Donald Trump continues to review which nations belong on the list.
Concerns About Security
Noem says the United States needs clear information from foreign governments. She argues that countries must help confirm the identities of their citizens. “If they don’t have a stable government there,” she said, “why should we allow people from that country to come here to the United States?” She says national security depends on strong vetting.
When asked if the number would reach 32 countries, Noem said only that the total sits “over 30.” She shared no timeline for when the new ban would begin.
The Department of Homeland Security has not answered questions about the plan or the countries under review.
A Shooting Sparks Swift Action
The new restrictions come after the Nov. 26 shooting of two National Guard members. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, came to the United States from Afghanistan following the U.S. military withdrawal. He now faces a first-degree murder charge after the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe remains in critical condition. Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty.
The White House says the case proves the need for stronger screening. Critics argue the government targets people who already passed long security checks. They say the new measures punish entire communities.
A Flurry of Immigration Changes
The travel ban expansion joins a series of quick moves on immigration. In the past week, the government paused asylum decisions. It also stopped processing some immigration benefits for people from the 19 countries included in the original ban. U.S. officials also froze visas for Afghans who helped the American military.
On Thursday, immigration officials shortened the length of some work permits. The change affects groups such as refugees and people with asylum. They now must renew their permits more often. The government says the added checks improve safety.
The administration continues to argue that these steps protect Americans from risk. Opponents say these choices cause fear and uncertainty for thousands of people with legal status.
