Overview
- An internal State Department memo identifies 36 countries in Africa, the Caribbean, Central Asia and the Pacific for possible full or partial entry suspensions
- A cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio flags failures in issuing secure identity documents, high visa overstay rates and limited deportation cooperation as key concerns
- Significant U.S. partners such as Egypt and Djibouti are on the list, fueling worries over strained diplomatic ties and weakened security collaboration
- Listed nations must submit an initial action plan by 8 a.m. Wednesday and meet all benchmarks within 60 days to avoid being banned
- Countries willing to accept deported third-country nationals under safe third-country agreements may mitigate risks and avert travel restrictions