Persecution

For the First Time in a Long Time, America Is Punishing Nations That Persecute Christians

Michael Ringer

10 Feb 2026 — 2 min read

Trump Administration Shifts from Diplomacy to Enforcement on Christian Persecution with Visa Bans and Designations

Wendy Yurgo, CEO of Revere Payments, writes in the Christian Post that America's response to global Christian persecution has fundamentally changed:

"For the first time in a long time, America is attaching consequences, not just condolences."

The shift includes concrete enforcement actions: Secretary of State Marco Rubio implemented visa restrictions in December 2025, denying entry to foreign nationals involved in religious persecution.

New US Policy Attaches Real Consequences to Nations That Persecute Christians

Nigeria was formally designated a "Country of Particular Concern" for religious freedom violations in November 2025. President Trump signed an executive order in February 2025 establishing a Department of Justice task force addressing anti Christian bias domestically.

The article notes that 388 million Christians face high persecution or discrimination globally, with nearly 4,900 Christians killed in the most recent reporting period.

The most affected regions include Nigeria (deadliest globally), sub Saharan Africa, Syria, Egypt, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and India. "Worship itself has become dangerous," Yurgo writes.

Christians are "targeted simply for gathering, praying, and living as followers of Christ."

The Crusader's Opinion

Previous administrations issued press releases. This one issues visa bans. For decades, America expressed "concern" while Christians were slaughtered. Now there are consequences. Nigeria is designated. Persecutors are denied entry. A DOJ task force exists. Is it enough? No. But it is a start. And it proves that when America decides to act, the world listens. Hold this administration to its promises. Demand more. But acknowledge the shift. Words without consequences are just noise. This is signal.

Take Action

Learn: Review the 2026 Open Doors World Watch List
Contact: Write to your elected representatives supporting continued enforcement against nations that persecute Christians.
Share: Share this article showing the concrete policy changes protecting persecuted Christians worldwide.
Pray: Pray for 388 million persecuted Christians worldwide and for continued US leadership on religious freedom.

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