White House stands firm over travel ban amid big protests, criticism
The Trump administration is standing firm over its ban on immigration from seven countries despite court rulings and mass protests against it
Thousands gathered at airports around the country to protest on Saturday, including lawyers who offered their services for free to those affected
President Donald Trump's administration on Sunday tempered a key element of his move to ban entry of refugees and people from seven Muslim-majority countries in the face of mounting criticism even from some prominent Republicans and protests that drew tens of thousands in major American cities.
In a statement, President Trump said visas would once again be issued once "the most secure policies" were in place, and denied it was a Muslim ban. Trump said his directive was "not about religion" but keeping America safe.
Trump has presented the policy as a way to protect the country from the threat of Islamist militants.
Trump signed the directive on Friday, halting the entire US refugee programme for 120 days, indefinitely banned Syrian refugees, and suspended all nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries.
Those who were already mid-flight were detained on arrival - even if they held valid US visas or other immigration permits. It is not known how many others were turned away at airports overseas as they tried to board flights to the US.
Democrats and a growing number of Republicans assailed the move, and foreign leaders condemned it amid court challenges and tumult at US airports.
The President's critics have said his action unfairly singled out Muslims, violated US law and the Constitution and defiled America's historic reputation as hospitable to immigrants.
Sixteen state attorneys general have said the order is unconstitutional while several federal judges have temporarily halted the deportation of visa holders.
Thousands gathered at airports around the country to protest on Saturday, including lawyers who offered their services for free to those affected.
Further demonstrations were held on Sunday, including protests outside the White House and Trump Tower in New York.
