Ban Muslims From Entering US - Donald Trump
American businessman and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has provoked a storm of controversy by saying that Muslims should be banned from entering the United States.
Trump said in a campaign statement that he was calling for "a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country's representatives can figure out what is going on".
“We have no idea who is coming into our country, no idea if they like us or hate us,” Trump told supporters in South Carolina.
READ ALSO: Senator Slams Donald Trump's Racist Comments
His campaign manager subsequently clarified that the ban would apply to tourists and prospective immigrants alike.
Trump said that his proposal is in response to the level of hatred among "large segments of the Muslim population" toward Americans.
Trump said that several polls indicate that at least 20% of the Muslim population in America believes that violence against America is justifiable under Islamic law.
His comments were met with swift condemnation by presidential rivals and other public figures.
"Donald Trump is unhinged. His 'policy' proposals are not serious" said rival candidate Jeb Bush, brother of former president George W Bush.
A spokesperson for the Council on America-Islamic Relations compared Trump’s statement with Nazi rhetoric from the 1930s.
“Donald Trump sounds more like a leader of a lynch mob than a great nation like ours,” said Nihad Awad.
Trump’s statement comes at a time of increased tension in the country after the deadliest terror attack since 9/11.
Five days ago, two shooters killed 14 and injured 21 at a Christmas party in California before being killed by police.
It emerged afterwards that one of the shooters pledged allegiance to ISIS before carrying out the attack.
Trump continues to lead the Republican presidential primaries and is 33% ahead in the polls. His nearest rival, Senator Ted Cruz is behind at 20%.
READ ALSO: Opinion - Why Nigeria Needs A Donald Trump
Source: Legit.ng