U.S. Slams Door on Christian Persecutors with New Visa Ban

The United States State Department, under Secretary Marco Rubio, has officially implemented a new policy denying visas to individuals involved in the persecution of Christians and other religious groups worldwide.

This initiative marks a significant step toward upholding religious freedom and holding accountable those who inflict violence on believers. As followers of Christ, we are called to defend the oppressed, and this policy echoes the biblical mandate in Psalm 82:3 to “defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.”

“The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world,” said Marco Rubio. “This visa policy applies to Nigeria and other governments or individuals that persecute people for their religious beliefs.”

Some have taken to social media to question the ability of the Trump administration to enforce such a policy. Thankfully, we have answers. The policy will be enacted under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act which targets foreign officials, sponsors, and participants in acts of religious violence.

This move comes at a critical time when Christian persecution is rampant in regions like Nigeria, where Islamist militants have targeted churches and communities, leading to thousands of deaths and displacements.

The Trump administration’s focus on restricting visas for Nigerians and their families complicit in anti-Christian attacks sends a clear message: America will not harbor those who trample on the God-given right to worship freely.

For too long, under previous administrations, the US turned a blind eye to global atrocities, allowing human rights abusers to enter our borders unchecked. By imposing these visa restrictions, our communities will be protected whilst promoting accountability abroad.

This is a practical application of Reagan-era ideals: peace through strength, where we leverage our influence to deter evil without unnecessary entanglements. Critics may decry it as isolationist, but true conservatism recognizes that defending religious liberty is essential to national security, persecutors today could inspire radicals tomorrow.

The Bible is replete with stories of God’s people facing persecution, from the early church in Acts to the prophets of old. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 5:10-12 that “blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Yet, we are not called to passivity; Romans 13 reminds us that governing authorities are God’s servants for good, punishing wrongdoers.

By denying entry to those who censor, attack, or kill believers, the US fulfills the role they are called to in Romans 13 on the global stage. Whilst we have used the brutal genocide in Nigeria as our example, this policy extends far beyond Nigeria’s borders, to violators worldwide, offering solidarity to our brothers and sisters in Christ suffering in places like China, North Korea, and the Middle East.

In an era of moral relativism, this policy reaffirms America’s role as a beacon of hope. It’s a win for faith, freedom, and the conservative ethos that values life and liberty above all. May it inspire other nations to follow suit, turning the tide against those who seek to extinguish the light of Christ.

Continue praying for wisdom among our leaders and courage for the persecuted, knowing that “the Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9).

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