Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the suspension of visitor visas for individuals from Gaza, citing evidence of connections between certain organisations facilitating the visas and terrorist groups like Hamas. The State Department’s decision comes amidst ongoing scrutiny surrounding the issuance process, which allows Gazans to enter the United States for medical and humanitarian purposes.
In statements made on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” Rubio noted that multiple congressional offices had presented evidence to the previous administration regarding these ties. While he did not specify the exact details or the offices involved, it appears that the pause in issuing visas was influenced by claims made by far-right commentator Laura Loomer, who has asserted that families arriving from Gaza pose a threat to national security.
One organisation, HEAL Palestine, which provides critical assistance to Palestinian families—including referral services for children suffering from severe injuries and trauma—has been a point of contention. The group has stated that the visa halt will impede its efforts to offer necessary medical aid, emphasising that its program is intended for treatment, not for resettlement.
As of May, nearly 4,000 visas had been issued to Palestinians for medical treatment in the US, including individuals from the West Bank and beyond. Rubio indicated that while a limited number of visas had been granted to children, they cannot be processed without accompanying adults, prompting a review of how these cases are vetted.
Rubio stressed the commitment to avoiding partnerships with groups that have ties or sympathies towards Hamas, although he refrained from naming any specific organisations. In the face of rising humanitarian concerns, former President Donald Trump acknowledged the severe conditions in Gaza, asserting his intent to engage further in addressing the crisis, which diverges from the position taken by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump remarked on the visible suffering, stating, “You can’t fake that. So, we’re going to be even more involved.”
The announcement from the State Department has raised significant discussions around the balance between national security and humanitarian assistance, particularly at a time when many in Gaza are in dire need of medical help.