Christian Groups Condemn Trump’s Latest Travel Ban on 19 Nations

Humanitarian Organizations Criticize U.S. Travel Ban Over National Security Concerns

In a move that has stirred significant controversy, President Donald Trump has enacted a travel ban affecting nationals from 19 countries, citing security threats and terrorism ties as the primary reasons. The decision has met with strong opposition from several Christian humanitarian groups.

The newly signed order limits travel to the United States from countries such as Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, and others, while partially restricting visa issuance for nations like Burundi and Cuba. The ban aims to enhance national security by mitigating potential threats from abroad.

Myal Greene, the president of World Relief, a key organization affiliated with the National Association of Evangelicals, expressed deep concerns over the implications of this order. Greene criticized the policy as an “assault on legal immigration processes,” emphasizing the challenges it poses even for those who have undergone rigorous vetting processes.

Greene urged the administration to revisit the decision, advocating for policies that ensure security without broadly banning entire nationalities. Notably, exemptions are included for Afghan allies under Special Immigrant Visas, as well as individuals already granted asylum or refugee status.

Similarly, Church World Service, another prominent refugee resettlement organization, has condemned the travel ban. Katherine Rehberg, the COO, remarked that the ban is “no better” than previous bans and criticized it for undermining America’s tradition of welcoming those fleeing conflict.

In Rehberg’s words, the ban results in a loss of “culture, innovation, and economic vitality,” depriving the U.S. of the benefits brought by diverse immigrant populations. She warned of the implications for families hoping to join loved ones in America, stressing that they are being excluded based on their country of origin.

The Rev. Jimmie Hawkins of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) also voiced opposition, arguing that the policy discriminates based on faith or nationality. Hawkins highlighted the Presbyterian Church’s commitment to global solidarity and denounced the administration’s efforts to restrict travel on such grounds.

In defense of the travel ban, President Trump stated that the measure is designed to protect American citizens from potential threats. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that those entering or residing in the U.S. do not harbor hostile attitudes or support foreign terrorism.

Trump also acknowledged the challenges faced by some countries in improving their security protocols. He noted that until these issues are resolved, certain restrictions would remain necessary as recommended by his Cabinet members.

For more details on the travel ban, visit the White House’s official proclamation.