In a dramatic escalation of national security measures, President Donald Trump’s controversial travel ban officially took effect at 12:01 AM today, impacting travelers from 12 countries across Central America, South America, Africa, and Asia. This sweeping executive order targets nations deemed “high risk” for terrorist activity, including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, and Somalia, amidst rising tensions both domestically and internationally.

As travelers flocked to Detroit Metro Airport and other major hubs, the atmosphere was charged with uncertainty and anxiety. The Trump administration insists that these restrictions are vital for safeguarding American lives, citing concerns over weak governments and high visa overstay rates in these nations. “We want to keep bad people out of our country,” Trump stated, framing the ban as a necessary measure for national security.

However, the sweeping restrictions have drawn sharp criticism, with many labeling them as discriminatory. The ban also introduces partial restrictions on seven additional countries, including Venezuela and Cuba. As the clock struck midnight, confusion reigned at airports nationwide as travelers scrambled to understand the implications of the new rules.

Importantly, there are exemptions for certain individuals, including green card holders, Olympic athletes, and Afghan interpreters with special visas, but the overall sentiment remains one of upheaval. With the travel landscape fundamentally altered overnight, the ripple effects of this executive order are expected to be felt for weeks to come.

As the situation unfolds, Fox 2 Detroit’s Robin Murdoch reports live from Detroit Metro Airport, where the first wave of impacts is being felt. “We’re keeping a close eye on how things develop throughout the day,” she stated, as travelers navigate the new reality of international travel restrictions.

Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this story continues to evolve.