US Tightens Gaza Visa Vetting, Revokes 300+ Visas

The Trump administration has instituted comprehensive social media vetting for all U.S. visa applicants who have visited the Gaza Strip since January 1, 2007, including NGO workers and those on official or diplomatic missions, as mandated in a State Department cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Under the policy, any security-related concerns uncovered during the review are referred for interagency investigation. The administration has already revoked over 300 visas, including those of students critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, as part of a broader tightening of visa policies. Critics argue that the measures violate First Amendment rights, emphasizing that U.S. law protects freedom of speech for all individuals within the country, regardless of immigration status. The administration contends the heightened scrutiny is necessary for national security and maintains that all visa applicants are subject to continuous vetting. The order exemplifies ongoing tensions between security priorities and civil liberties amid increased scrutiny of dissent connected to U.S. foreign policy.