A recent US State Department cable reveals that visa applicants who visited Gaza since 2007 must now have their social media scrutinized for potential security threats. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's order affects all visa types and includes those affiliated with NGOs. If suspicious content is found, an interagency investigation may occur. Rubio's office has reportedly revoked over 300 visas this year, particularly targeting applicants critical of US policies regarding the Gaza conflict, raising serious concerns about freedom of speech and academic independence, especially amid broader conflicts over university policies and funding.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has mandated a review of social media by visa applicants who visited Gaza, potentially flagging them as national security risks.
Any derogatory information found during social media screenings may lead to interagency investigations regarding visa applicants, raising concerns about free speech implications.
Collection
[
|
...
]