Somalia Urges Dialogue After U.S. Travel Ban Targets its Citizens

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Federal Government of Somalia has called for diplomatic engagement following the United States’ decision to impose new travel restrictions on Somali nationals, a move that has sparked concern among officials and human rights advocates.

Somalia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Dahir Hassan Abdi, said Mogadishu is seeking direct consultations with American officials to better understand the rationale behind the decision and to explore avenues for resolving the issue.

“Somalia highly values its historical relationship with the United States and is ready for constructive dialogue to address the mentioned grievances,” Ambassador Abdi said in a statement on Friday.

The new U.S. travel ban, signed by former President Donald Trump, bars citizens from twelve countries—including Somalia—from entering the United States, citing national security concerns. The move has drawn criticism for its humanitarian and diplomatic consequences, particularly for Somali students, refugees, and families seeking reunification.

Human rights groups have condemned the policy, calling it discriminatory and warning that it risks straining bilateral ties and undermining efforts to support vulnerable populations.

Somalia, which continues to confront security challenges at home, said it remains committed to engaging the United States in good faith. Officials noted that diplomacy and mutual understanding are key to addressing complex security and migration issues.

“This is a moment that calls for partnership, not exclusion,” said a Somali foreign ministry official who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We believe in cooperation and trust that our longstanding ties with the U.S. can help us move forward.”

The Somali government’s response reflects a broader concern over the human impact of blanket travel restrictions and a desire to maintain open channels with Washington, especially as both countries collaborate on counter-terrorism and regional security.

It remains unclear how long the ban will stay in effect or what criteria will be used for its review. Somalia has signaled it will continue to push for diplomatic solutions while advocating for its citizens abroad.