The United States has temporarily suspended all visa issuance for Palestinians from the war-torn Gaza Strip. The U.S. State Department confirmed the decision on Saturday via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The statement noted that while a limited process for issuing temporary visas to Palestinians on medical and humanitarian grounds was ongoing, it has now been temporarily halted for a full review. Until a new decision is made, residents of Gaza will not be granted visas.
Recently, three Palestinian children injured in Israeli attacks, along with their families, were brought to the United States for medical treatment with the help of the U.S.-based non-profit organization “Hillel.” This prompted sharp criticism from far-right political activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, Laura Loomer, who questioned, “How is Islamist migration being prioritized in the Biden administration’s foreign policy?”
Her comments were quickly supported by many Republican leaders and activists, criticizing the current administration. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. State Department announced the suspension of visas for Gaza Palestinians.
For context, since October 7, 2023, ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in approximately 61,900 deaths and over 150,000 injuries, most of whom are women, children, and civilians.
Sources: BBC, Anadolu Agency, Al Jazeera.