North Koreans, Venezuelans now covered by travel ban that includes phased-in approach

  WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump issued new travel restrictions on nationals of eight countries as a substitute to a major portion of its controversial ban issued early this year that was met with restraining orders by state courts. The new restrictions covering nationals from Chad, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen vary by country and includes a phased-in approach, according to a CNN report.   In a tweet, Trump said: "Making America Safe is my number one priority. We will not admit those into our country we cannot safely vet." The Trump administration issued an executive order banning citizens of six Muslim-dominated states from entering the US unless they can show proof of a "bona fide" relationship with a person or entity in the country. Those nations were Iran, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen, and Sudan. However, persons covered by the "bona fide" exception -- such as a foreign grandparent of a US citizen -- can still apply for visas until October 18. After that date, the new restrictions on travel will be implemented against them. The revised travel ban effecting nationals from six-Muslim majority countries expired on Sunday. With regard the new restrictions, Trump described them as a "critical step toward establishing an immigration system that protects Americans' safety and security in an era of dangerous terrorism and transnational crime." "We cannot afford to continue the failed policies of the past, which present an unacceptable danger to our country. My highest obligation is to ensure the safety and security of the American people, and in issuing this new travel order, I am fulfilling that sacred obligation." Under the new travel restructions, travel to the US will be generally suspended, while in other cases, travelers will go through enhanced screening and vetting requirements. CNN said foreign nationals from North Korea, for instance, are banned but a student from Iran will be allowed in, subject to "enhanced screening and vetting requirements." BBC said the restrictions on Venezuelans cover only government officials and their family members. Also, no current validly issued green cards, visas or travel documents will be revoked under the new travel ban. Even if the US considers Chat as a counter-terrorism partner, a BBC report said the African country failed to share terrorism-related and other public information that Washington required. Thus, business and tourist visas for its nationals are suspended Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said with the new restrictions, "the President is carrying out his duty to protect the American people." "The State Department will coordinate with other federal agencies to implement these measures in an orderly manner. We will continue to work closely with our allies and partners who share our commitment to national and global security," Tillerson said in a statement. On the other hand, acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke said the President's proclamation will allow the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) "to better keep terrorists and criminals from entering our country." Duke said: "The restrictions announced are tough and tailored, and they send a message to foreign governments that they must work with us to enhance security." 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