On April 17, 2025, the Trump administration mandated enhanced social media vetting for all U.S. visa applicants who have visited the Gaza Strip since January 1, 2007. This directive, outlined in an internal State Department cable and signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, applies to both immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories, including individuals who worked for NGOs or held official or diplomatic roles in Gaza. If the vetting reveals potential security concerns, a Security Advisory Opinion (SAO)—a detailed interagency review—must be initiated. Rubio indicated that over 300 visas have already been revoked under this policy .
Critics argue that the administration’s policies, including deportations of student visa holders who support Palestinians and criticize Israel’s actions in Gaza, infringe on First Amendment rights. Among recent contentious cases is the arrest of Turkish student Rumeysa Ozturk, prompting Rubio to affirm further visa revocations for similar individuals .
This policy is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to increase visa scrutiny and protect U.S. national security. However, civil liberties organizations, including the ACLU, have expressed concerns that such measures may infringe upon First Amendment rights and lead to the suppression of lawful political expression .
