The Department of Homeland Security declared Sunday it'll continue to enforce President Donald Trump’s ban on travelers from seven terror-linked countries, citing the "safety and security" of the American people.
In a news release, the department said "prohibited travel will remain prohibited, and the U.S. government retains its right to revoke visas at any time if required for national security or public safety."
The agency also insisted the president's executive order affects only "a minor portion of international travelers," and calls is "a first step towards reestablishing control over America's borders and national security."
"Approximately 80 million international travelers enter the United States every year," the statement said. "Yesterday, less than one percent of the more than 325,000 international air travelers who arrive every day were inconvenienced while enhanced security measures were implemented. "
"These individuals went through enhanced security screenings and are being processed for entry to the United States, consistent with our immigration laws and judicial orders," it added.
The statement came after two federal judges, in New York and Virginia, temporarily halted the removal of detained individuals. The Hill reported similar rulings were also issued in Massachusetts and Washington state.