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Trump administration halts visas for people from Gaza after videos circulate

nbclosangeles.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 4:53:22 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Classified Documents & National Security, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights, Republican Party Politics
Trump administration halts visas for people from Gaza after videos circulate

A day after conservative activist Laura Loomer posted videos on social media of children from Gaza arriving in the U.S. for medical treatment and questioning how they got visas, the State Department said it was halting all visitor visas for people from Gaza pending a review.

The State Department said Saturday the visas would be stopped while it looks into how "a small number of temporary medical-humanitarian visas" were issued in recent days. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday told "Face the Nation" on CBS that the action came after "outreach from multiple congressional offices asking questions about it."

Rubio said there were "just a small number" of the visas issued to children in need of medical aid but that they were accompanied by adults. The congressional offices reached out with evidence that "some of the organizations bragging about and involved in acquiring these visas have strong links to terrorist groups like Hamas," he asserted, without providing evidence or naming those organizations.

As a result, he said, "we are going to pause this program and reevaluate how those visas are being vetted and what relationship, if any, has there been by these organizations to the process of acquiring those visas."

Loomer on Friday posted videos on X of children from Gaza arriving earlier this month in San Francisco and Houston for medical treatment with the aid of an organization called HEAL Palestine. "Despite the US saying we are not accepting Palestinian 'refugees' into the United States under the Trump administration," these people from Gaza were able to travel to the U.S., she said.

She called it a "national security threat" and asked who signed off on the visas, calling for the person to be fired. She tagged Rubio, President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, GOP Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat.

Trump has downplayed Loomer's influence on his administration, but several officials swiftly left or were removed shortly after she publicly criticized them.

The State Department on Sunday declined to comment on how many of the visas had been granted and whether the decision to halt visas to people from Gaza had anything to do with Loomer's posts.

HEAL Palestine said in a statement Sunday that it was "distressed" by the State Department decision to stop halt visitor visas from Gaza. The group said it is "an American humanitarian nonprofit organization delivering urgent aid and medical care to children in Palestine."

A post on the organization's Facebook page Thursday shows a photo of a boy from Gaza leaving Egypt and headed to St. Louis for treatment and said he is "our 15th evacuated child arriving in the U.S. in the last two weeks."

The organization brings "severely injured children" to the U.S. on temporary visas for treatment they can't get at home, the statement said. Following treatment, the children and any family members who accompanied them return to the Middle East, the statement said.

"This is a medical treatment program, not a refugee resettlement program," it said.

The World Health Organization has repeatedly called for more medical evacuations from Gaza, where Israel's over 22-month war against Hamas has heavily destroyed or damaged much of the territory's health system.

"More than 14,800 patients still need lifesaving medical care that is not available in Gaza," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Wednesday on social media, and called on more countries to offer support.

A WHO description of the medical evacuation process from Gaza published last year explained that the WHO submits lists of patients to Israeli authorities for security clearance. It noted that before the war in Gaza began, 50 to 100 patients were leaving Gaza daily for medical treatment, and it called for a higher rate of approvals from Israeli authorities.

The U.N. and partners say medicines and even basic health care supplies are low in Gaza after Israel cut off all aid to the territory of over 2 million people for more than 10 weeks earlier this year.

"Ceasefire! Peace is the best medicine," Tedros added Wednesday.

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Opinion:

The recent decision by the Trump administration to halt visas for individuals from Gaza—specifically targeting children in need of medical care—reflects a disturbing intersection of fear-mongering and political opportunism. This action was precipitated by a social media campaign led by conservative activist Laura Loomer, who raised alarm about the arrival of Gazan children in the United States for medical treatment. Loomer’s comments not only reveal a troubling trend of scapegoating vulnerable populations but also highlight the broader political climate that perpetuates xenophobia and undermines humanitarian efforts. By examining the historical context and underlying motivations of such policies, we can better understand their implications and foster a more informed discussion about social justice and humanitarianism.

Historically, the United States has often grappled with its immigration policies, especially in times of conflict. The current pause on visas for Gazans echoes past instances where marginalized groups, particularly those from the Middle East, have faced intense scrutiny and discrimination. The post-9/11 era saw the implementation of policies that disproportionately affected Muslims and those from Arab nations, often justified by national security concerns. Such policies are not merely reactionary; they are rooted in a long-standing narrative that frames immigrants and refugees as threats rather than as individuals fleeing violence and seeking safety. This framing is particularly evident in the current administration's rhetoric, where the designation of certain humanitarian organizations as having “strong links to terrorist groups” lacks substantive evidence and serves to delegitimize critical humanitarian work.

The organization HEAL Palestine, which assists severely injured children from Gaza by facilitating their medical treatment in the U.S., represents a lifeline for many who might otherwise succumb to the dire conditions in their home region. By halting visas for these children under the guise of national security, the administration is effectively prioritizing political agendas over human lives. This practice not only contradicts American values of empathy and support for those in need but also stifles the voices of organizations committed to alleviating suffering. The emotional and physical health of these children should take precedence over unfounded fears; denying them access to life-saving treatment is an affront to our collective humanity.

Moreover, the political maneuvering surrounding Loomer’s posts demonstrates how fear can be weaponized for political gain. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's comments, which suggest that "outreach from multiple congressional offices" influenced the decision, illustrate how political pressure can lead to swift and harmful policy changes without thorough vetting. This is a concerning trend where unfounded fears and political expediency can override evidence-based decision-making. It is essential to recognize that the fallout from such choices extends beyond the immediate suspension of visas; it impacts the lives of countless children and families who deserve compassion and support. By fostering a climate where fear drives policy, political leaders undermine trust in humanitarian efforts and perpetuate cycles of trauma.

In contemplating the broader implications of this visa suspension, it is crucial to connect these events to ongoing social struggles against systemic racism, xenophobia, and the dehumanization of marginalized populations. The rhetoric surrounding national security often masks deeper issues of inequality and discrimination, particularly against those from war-torn regions. As advocates for social justice, it is imperative to challenge these narratives and advocate for policies that recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their birthplace. The experiences of Gazan children seeking treatment are not merely isolated incidents but part of a larger tapestry of struggles faced by immigrants and refugees globally.

In conclusion, the recent decision to suspend visas for children from Gaza underlines a dangerous trend in American immigration policy characterized by fear and misinformation. It is an urgent reminder of the need for a critical examination of our values and the policies that reflect them. As we engage with these issues, it is essential to advocate for a compassionate approach to immigration that prioritizes humanitarian aid over nationalistic fears. By standing in solidarity with organizations like HEAL Palestine and amplifying the voices of those affected by these policies, we can work towards a more just and equitable society that honors the principles of humanity and compassion.

Action:

The recent decision by the Trump administration to halt visitor visas for individuals from Gaza, particularly children seeking medical treatment in the U.S., highlights a troubling intersection of national security rhetoric and humanitarian need. The reaction to a few social media posts—specifically, conservative activist Laura Loomer's videos—reveals a broader pattern of fear-mongering that has led to the suspension of critical support for vulnerable populations. This incident serves as a reflection of the political climate in which fear often triumphs over compassion, and it prompts us to question the narratives being circulated and the policies being enacted as a result.

Historically, U.S. immigration policy has often been influenced by external perceptions of national security threats, particularly in relation to regions facing conflict. The U.S. has a long-standing tradition of providing asylum and humanitarian aid to those fleeing violence and persecution; however, this commitment has been repeatedly challenged in times of heightened geopolitical tensions. The current administration’s decision to pause visas for Gazans is indicative of this trend, as it conflates humanitarian aid with national security threats without substantiated evidence. Such actions risk reinforcing a narrative that portrays vulnerable populations as potential threats, diverting attention from the urgent needs of those suffering from the consequences of war and blockades.

In light of this alarming development, it is crucial for Americans to respond proactively. First, advocating for transparency and accountability in government decision-making is essential. Citizens can organize petitions and reach out to their congressional representatives to demand clarity regarding the criteria for visa issuance and the rationale behind the sudden suspension. Additionally, local and national advocacy groups can ramp up efforts to educate the public about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the importance of providing aid to those in need. It is vital to highlight that organizations like HEAL Palestine play a critical role in facilitating medical treatment for children who would otherwise face dire consequences if denied care.

Moreover, community engagement can serve as a powerful tool in countering the narratives put forth by individuals like Loomer and political figures who demonize vulnerable populations. Hosting forums, workshops, and discussions that focus on the realities of life in Gaza, the impact of U.S. foreign policy, and the importance of humanitarian aid can help foster empathy and understanding. By building coalitions that unite diverse voices—from immigrant rights advocates to medical professionals—communities can create a robust counter-narrative that prioritizes compassion over fear.

Lastly, it is vital to support media literacy initiatives that equip individuals with the tools to critically analyze information presented on social media and in the news. The rapid spread of misinformation, especially on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), can distort public perception of humanitarian issues. By promoting resources that help people discern credible information from sensationalist claims, we can foster a more informed and compassionate public discourse. This is particularly important as misinformation can lead to policies that harm rather than help those who are most vulnerable.

In conclusion, the decision to halt visitor visas for children from Gaza seeking medical treatment is more than just a policy change; it reflects a broader societal trend that prioritizes fear over compassion. By engaging in advocacy, fostering community dialogue, and promoting media literacy, Americans can take meaningful steps to counteract harmful narratives and support humanitarian efforts. In these challenging times, our collective action can serve as a beacon of hope for those in need, reinforcing the idea that empathy and humanity should always prevail over fear and division.

To Do:

The recent decision by the State Department to halt visitor visas for individuals from Gaza, particularly impacting children seeking medical treatment, raises significant humanitarian concerns. The situation calls for active engagement from individuals and communities who value human rights and compassionate aid. Here’s a list of actions we can take to advocate for change and support those affected by this decision:

### 1. **Advocate for Policy Change** - **Contact Elected Officials:** Reach out to your congressional representatives and express your concerns about the visa halt. Emphasize the humanitarian need for medical treatment for children from Gaza. - **Who to Contact:** - **Your U.S. Senator**: Find their contact information at [senate.gov](https://www.senate.gov/senators/contact). - **Your U.S. Representative**: Find their contact information at [house.gov](https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative).

- **Sample Message:** "Dear [Official's Name], I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent decision to halt visitor visas for individuals from Gaza, particularly affecting children in need of medical care. It is crucial that we prioritize humanitarian needs and ensure that children can receive the treatment they require. I urge you to advocate for a reversal of this decision and support organizations like HEAL Palestine that assist in these efforts."

### 2. **Support Humanitarian Organizations** - **Donate to Organizations Providing Aid:** Contribute to or fundraise for organizations like HEAL Palestine, which provides medical assistance to children from Gaza. Your financial support can help these organizations continue their vital work. - **HEAL Palestine:** - **Website**: [healpalestine.org](https://healpalestine.org/) - **Donate**: Look for the donation section on their website.

### 3. **Petition for Change** - **Start or Sign Petitions:** Use platforms like Change.org to initiate or support petitions advocating for the reinstatement of visas for children needing medical care from Gaza. - **Example Petition**: Search for existing petitions focused on this issue or create one that calls on the State Department to reinstate the visa program.

### 4. **Raise Awareness through Social Media** - **Use Your Platforms:** Share information and updates about the situation on social media. Use hashtags like #HealPalestine and #HumanRights to connect with a broader audience. - **Example Post**: "Children from Gaza are being denied vital medical care due to the recent visa halt. This is a humanitarian crisis! Let’s raise our voices and advocate for their right to receive treatment. #HealPalestine"

### 5. **Engage in Local Activism** - **Join Local Advocacy Groups:** Find local organizations or groups that focus on humanitarian issues, refugee rights, or Middle Eastern affairs. Participate in their campaigns or events to raise awareness and support. ### 6. **Educate Yourself and Others** - **Attend Workshops or Webinars:** Look for educational events focusing on the Gaza humanitarian crisis, refugee rights, or U.S. foreign policy. Engage with experts and activists to better understand the complexities and learn how to advocate effectively.

### 7. **Write Opinion Pieces or Letters to Editors** - **Share Your Views:** Write opinion pieces for local newspapers or online platforms discussing the consequences of the visa halt and the importance of humanitarian aid. - **Where to Submit**: Check your local newspaper’s website for submission guidelines.

### 8. **Contact the State Department** - **Express Your Concerns Directly:** Reach out to the State Department to voice your concerns about the visa halt. - **Contact Information**: - **U.S. Department of State** - **Address**: 2201 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20520 - **Email**: Use the online contact form at [state.gov/contact](https://www.state.gov/contact-us/).

- **Sample Message:** "To Whom It May Concern, I am deeply concerned about the decision to halt visitor visas for individuals from Gaza. This decision greatly affects children seeking life-saving medical treatments. I urge the State Department to reconsider this policy in light of humanitarian needs."

By taking these actions, we can stand in solidarity with those affected by the visa halt, advocate for their rights, and contribute to a more humane approach to humanitarian crises.


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2 Related Article(s):

Trump administration halts visas for people from Gaza after Laura Loomer questions arrivals

Trump administration halts visas for people from Gaza after Laura Loomer questions arrivals - Sentinel Colorado


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