US President Donald Trump’s proclamation imposing a travel ban on citizens from 12 countries, including several from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has triggered uncertainty in the region and fears of new hardships in countries already facing precarious conditions, conflicts and wars.

Trump signed the proclamation on Wednesday as part of what he called his responsibility “to protect the national security and national interest of the United States and its people.”  

“Nationals of some countries also pose significant risks of overstaying their visas in the US, which increases burdens on immigration and law enforcement components of the US and often exacerbates other risks related to national security and public safety,” he added.

Under the new proclamation, entry to the US from Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea and Haiti is fully suspended. The issuance of immigrant and nonimmigrant visas will also be suspended. Those who already have a valid visa can remain in the country.