Federal Judge Blocks Trump Policy Restricting Asylum for 39 Countries

A federal judge on Friday struck down a Trump administration policy that restricted asylum access for citizens of 39 countries and made it harder for immigrants to remain in or enter the United States.

The administration implemented the restrictions after two National Guard members were shot. The policy made it more difficult for people from the affected countries to obtain asylum protections or maintain their immigration status.

The judge found the policy violated federal law or constitutional requirements. Court documents did not specify which legal basis the judge used to invalidate the restrictions.

The Trump administration had defended the policy as a necessary security measure tied to the incident involving the National Guard members. Administration officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the ruling.

Immigration advocacy groups challenged the policy in court, arguing it discriminated against nationals of specific countries and lacked proper legal authorization. Legal experts said the ruling could affect how the administration handles future immigration restrictions.

The policy affected citizens seeking asylum under federal law and those already in the United States attempting to adjust their immigration status. Court filings identified the 39 countries but did not specify whether the restrictions applied equally to all applicants or included exceptions.

The ruling does not affect other Trump administration immigration policies currently in effect. Federal courts have blocked several administration directives on immigration grounds, though other policies have survived legal challenges.

Immigration policy remains contentious in Congress and the courts. Lawmakers have proposed competing bills addressing asylum procedures and border security, though none has advanced significantly through the legislative process.

The judge set no timeline for how quickly the policy must be rescinded. The Trump administration can appeal the decision to a higher court.