The U.S. has suspended visitor visas for Gaza applicants pending a full security review.
Officials said the pause concerns temporary medical-humanitarian visas granted in recent days.
The U.S. State Department has put a hold on all visitor visas for applicants from Gaza, pending a thorough review of recent visa approvals. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the move on Saturday, saying the review would focus on temporary medical-humanitarian visas granted in recent days.
“Effective immediately, all visitor visas for individuals from Gaza are being paused while we conduct a full and thorough review of the process and procedures,” Rubio said in a statement.
The decision was announced shortly after conservative activist Laura Loomer raised alarms about security risks she said could be associated with temporary visas issued to individuals from Gaza. Loomer alleged that some recipients of medical entry permits could pose threats, a claim that quickly gained traction among conservative circles in Washington.
Critics, however, argue that the suspension unfairly targets civilians in need of urgent medical attention abroad. Health groups warn the policy could endanger patients who depend on overseas hospitals for life-saving care, especially given Gaza’s strained healthcare system.
Supporters of the suspension counter that a temporary pause is necessary to ensure robust vetting and national security. They emphasize that the review does not rule out future humanitarian admissions but seeks to tighten procedures to avoid potential loopholes.
