U.S. President Donald Trump has expanded the American travel ban, barring nationals of five additional countries and travelers holding documents issued by the Palestinian Authority from entering the United States.
The White House said the measures are intended to “protect U.S. national security” and will take effect on January 1, 2026.
A full entry ban will apply to arrivals from Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria, as well as to holders of Palestinian Authority passports.
The decision has already affected individuals, including 17-year-old Palestinian student Hiba Al-Nawati, who told BBC Arabic that her U.S. visa—issued in July 2023 and valid until 2028—was suddenly canceled following the announcement. She said the move has ended her plans to apply for medical scholarships in the United States.
