U.S. Halts Visas for Gaza Amidst Controversy

The U.S. State Department has halted visitor visas for individuals from Gaza as it reviews its policy, drawing criticism from pro-Palestine groups. The move follows claims by Laura Loomer about Palestinian entry into the U.S. and may affect medical access for children in Gaza.

The U.S. State Department announced on Saturday the suspension of visitor visas for residents of Gaza as it undertakes a thorough policy review. The decision has been met with backlash from pro-Palestine advocates, noting the impact on humanitarian visas.

The department revealed issuing over 3,800 B1/B2 visitor visas to holders of the Palestinian Authority travel document in 2025, yet did not specify figures for Gaza alone. This action follows statements by far-right activist Laura Loomer, claiming an influx of Palestinians into the U.S., which stirred reactions among Republicans.

The Palestine Children's Relief Fund criticized the move, citing potential harm to children's medical access, amidst tensions heightened by an ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, leading to severe casualties on both sides.