House Democrats ask Trump admin to resume medical visas for children from Gaza
House Democrats Call on Trump Administration to Allow Injured Children from Gaza to Enter U.S. for Medical Care
In a recent development, House Democrats are urging the Trump administration to permit children injured in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict to come to the United States for emergency medical treatment. Over 140 lawmakers signed a letter addressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on August 25, pleading for the reversal of a decision to halt the approval of visitor visas for individuals from the Gaza Strip, particularly children in critical need of medical assistance.
The lawmakers expressed concern that denying these children access to necessary medical care is unjust, especially considering the rigorous vetting process already in place for Palestinians seeking medical treatment outside of Gaza. They emphasized that individuals leaving Gaza for medical purposes are subjected to thorough screening by the Israeli government, including security clearances and identity verification.
The State Department’s sudden announcement earlier this month to stop issuing travel visas to individuals from Gaza, including medical-humanitarian visas, has sparked outrage among lawmakers. Rubio cited concerns raised by congressional offices regarding potential ties between organizations facilitating these visas and terrorist groups like Hamas as the reason for the abrupt change in policy.
Prior to the suspension of visa approvals, several children from Gaza had already arrived in the U.S. for medical treatment without any issues, according to the House Democrats. The lawmakers are urging Rubio to reconsider the State Department’s decision and resume granting temporary medical-humanitarian visas to individuals from Gaza in need of urgent medical care.
In their letter to Rubio, the Democrats requested clarification on the national security concerns prompting the visa suspension, a timeline for the review process, and measures to ensure the continuity of emergency medical programs. They also called for exemptions for children from Gaza requiring immediate medical attention from the visa pause.
The plea from House Democrats underscores the humanitarian urgency of allowing these vulnerable individuals access to life-saving medical treatment. It remains to be seen how the Trump administration will respond to this bipartisan call for compassion and assistance to those in dire need.
