Somalia Responds to U.S. Travel Ban on Its Citizens

By A Yusuf Mohamed

Washington, Friday, June 6, 2025 –The Federal Government of Somalia has swiftly responded to the recent decision by the United States government to impose a travel ban on Somali citizens, expressing a strong desire for the matter to be resolved through diplomatic engagement.

Somalia’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Dahir Hassan Abdi, stated that the Somali government is ready to engage with its U.S. counterpart to address and clarify any security-related concerns behind the decision.

“Somalia deeply values its longstanding relationship with the United States and is open to constructive dialogue aimed at addressing the concerns raised,” the Ambassador said.

The newly announced restrictions are expected to have a significant impact on Somali students, refugees, and individuals seeking to reunite with their families in the U.S. Human rights organizations have strongly condemned the ban, describing it as discriminatory and harmful to both diplomatic relations and ongoing humanitarian efforts.

The executive order, signed by U.S. President Donald Trump, bars entry for nationals from 12 countries, including Somalia. President Trump defended the move as a necessary measure to enhance national security, prevent foreign terrorism, and mitigate other security threats.

The Somali government has emphasized the importance of cooperation and mutual respect in addressing global security challenges without undermining the rights and dignity of its citizens.

This is not the first time that Trump has included Somalia on this list; he took a similar step during his previous term.