Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno announced Thursday that the Central African nation will suspend visa issuance to U.S. citizens, marking a swift response to Washington's recent travel restrictions targeting several countries.
The decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump's Wednesday proclamation barring entry to travelers from Chad and other nations, citing national security concerns. President Deby Itno declared on social media: "I have instructed the government to act in accordance with the principles of reciprocity… Chad has its dignity and pride."
Analysts note this development highlights growing diplomatic tensions in U.S.-Africa relations, particularly affecting security partners like Chad – a key ally in counterterrorism operations in the Sahel region. The visa suspension raises questions about potential impacts on bilateral cooperation and regional stability.
Business leaders express concern over possible disruptions to commercial exchanges, while academics emphasize the need to monitor how this reciprocal measure might influence migration policies across African nations. For travelers, the immediate effect creates new logistical challenges for U.S. citizens planning visits to Chad.
