Washington: The US State Department has announced a suspension of visitor visas for individuals from Gaza, a move that affects those seeking entry for medical purposes. This decision aims to facilitate a "full and thorough review of the process and procedures" used in issuing temporary medical-humanitarian visas, as revealed by the agency on X.
According to BBC, the halt has sparked criticism from various Palestinian rights groups who are concerned about the implications for those in urgent need of medical care. The Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund has been actively involved in evacuating children from Gaza as part of its treatment abroad program. In 2024 alone, 169 children have been evacuated to regions including the Middle East, Europe, South Africa, and the United States for necessary medical attention.
The announcement comes nearly two years into a conflict that escalated following a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The ongoing strife has severely impacted Gaza's medical infrastructure, compounded by significant food shortages. Humanitarian groups have raised alarms over an Israeli blockade imposed in March, which they claim has obstructed the flow of essential food supplies into Gaza. Israeli authorities argue that these restrictions are crucial to prevent resources from falling into the hands of Hamas.
Reports from UN-backed food security organizations, humanitarian groups, and journalists stationed in Gaza highlight the dire food scarcity, warning of impending famine conditions. In a statement released in late July, major international news outlets, including the BBC, Agence France-Presse, the Associated Press, and Reuters, expressed concern over the plight of journalists in the region who are now facing starvation along with the local population.
The global community remains attentive to the unfolding humanitarian crisis, even as US President Donald Trump's administration continues to offer steadfast support to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite acknowledging the severe food shortages in Gaza earlier this year.