Expansion of Travel Ban to Include Gaza
Former President Donald Trump announced his intention to broaden the U.S. travel ban to encompass residents of the Palestinian territory of Gaza in response to the recent Hamas terror attack on Israel.
Trump made this declaration during a speech delivered in Clive, Iowa. He also addressed the anti-Israel protests on college campuses in the U.S. and promised to deport resident aliens exhibiting “jihadist sympathies.”
Expanding Existing Bans
During his speech, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to the travel bans implemented during his presidency. He stated, “I banned refugees from Syria, I banned refugees from Somalia, very dangerous place, and from all the most dangerous places in the world—and in my second term, we are going to expand each and every one of those bans.”
Trump emphasized that people from Gaza and other countries that pose security threats would not be admitted into the U.S.
Provocation and Legal Challenges
The decision to include Gaza in the travel ban is expected to face legal challenges.
Critics argue that such a move lumps all residents of the region, many of whom are living in overcrowded and impoverished conditions, into the category of terrorists.
Trump’s approach mirrors the tough stance taken by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, his rival for the Republican nomination.
Crackdown on Jihadist Sympathizers
In addition to expanding the travel ban, Trump outlined plans to deport resident aliens sympathetic to the Hamas cause.
He emphasized the need to address foreign nationals supporting terrorists on college campuses.
He stated, “Under the Trump administration, we will revoke the student visas of radical anti-American and anti-Semitic foreigners at our colleges and universities—and we will send them straight back home.”
Trump also condemned the pro-Hamas protests that occurred in various U.S. cities and called for greater safety for Jewish students.
Former Travel Bans and Iran’s Role
Trump recalled his previous efforts to restrict travel from predominantly Muslim countries during his 2016 campaign.
He noted that his travel ban evolved over time due to legal challenges, ultimately covering Iran, Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Somalia, among other nations.
Trump also criticized President Joe Biden’s sanctions policy toward Iran and its implications for international security.
He maintained that such attacks on Israel would not have occurred during his tenure.
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