WASHINGTON: It is more difficult for foreign students who want to study in the United States, as the US government has ordered a strict screening for students and other types of visas.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered all US embassies to examine visa applicants’ social media content. According to the New York Times, the decision was made to stop those who criticize the United States and Israel.
According to US officials, social media activities will be scanned for all the students receiving a student visa between October 7, 2023 and August 31, 2024.
The letter states that if an applicant posted in favor of Palestine or on social media against Israel, his visa application could be rejected.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order, which could deport foreign nationals criticizing the US government or Israel.
The US Secretary of State said that all embassy visas will provide details of applicants to the fraud unit, which will scrutinize their social media accounts.
These steps are being taken after the growing criticism of Israel in the United States. After Israel’s invasion of Gaza in October 2023, students who raise their voice in favor of Palestine could be targeted.
