Civil rights advocates in the United States have expressed alarm over a new directive signed by former President Donald Trump. They claim the order lays the groundwork for a travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries and expands its scope to foreign nationals already in the country.
The executive order, titled “Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats,” was released on Monday. Advocacy groups argue it is broader and more harmful than the 2017 “Muslim ban.”
Deepa Alagesan, a lawyer with the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), said the order is “bigger and worse” than the previous travel ban. She emphasized that it targets not only those outside the US but also foreign nationals already residing legally in the country.
Deportation of Foreign Nationals
The order directs officials to identify countries with inadequate vetting and screening systems. It recommends suspending or banning the admission of nationals from these countries. Additionally, it calls for identifying individuals from these nations who entered the US after 2021.
The directive orders “immediate steps” to deport foreign citizens whenever authorities find information justifying their exclusion. Advocacy groups argue this provision could disproportionately impact immigrant families and cause widespread fear.
Impact on International Students and Activists
Experts warn that the order could also target international students, especially those advocating for Palestinian rights. Advocacy groups say this expands the reach of the directive to silence political activism.
Bilawal Confirms Attendance at US President’s National Prayer Breakfast
Alagesan Highlights Vague Language
Alagesan criticized the vague language of the order. She said it gives federal agencies broad authority to act against individuals arbitrarily. “At its core, it’s just another method to keep people out, to get people out, to break up families, to incite fear,” she told Al Jazeera.
The order also includes a clause requiring officials to ensure that foreign citizens, including those already in the US, “do not bear hostile attitudes” toward Americans, their culture, or their government. It further prohibits advocacy for or support of designated foreign terrorist groups.
Families at Risk of Separation
Advocates say the directive will harm immigrant families. Alagesan warned that it could result in deportations, even for individuals who have lived in the US for years. The directive’s language suggests sweeping actions against targeted groups.
Several advocacy groups have denounced the order since its publication. They argue it revives xenophobic policies that disproportionately affect Muslim-majority nations. The executive order, critics say, sends a message that immigrants are unwelcome in the US.
Historical Context and New Concerns
The 2017 “Muslim ban” faced legal challenges and widespread protests. Advocacy groups fear the new order goes further by targeting individuals already in the US. They also warn it could be used to crack down on political dissent and activism.
Civil rights groups are calling on lawmakers and activists to challenge the order. They say it threatens to erode the rights of immigrants and create a climate of fear. Advocates urge the public to stay vigilant and push back against discriminatory policies.
Follow Day News on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates