The Trump administration has halted the scheduling of new student and exchange visitor visa appointments while preparing to expand social media vetting for these applicants, according to an internal cable obtained by Reuters. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that updated guidance on social media scrutiny would follow a review of current operations in vetting foreign students. Existing appointments can proceed, but new ones have been suspended as part of a broader strategy to intensify deportations and revoke visas aligned with Trump’s hardline political agenda.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that the U.S. will employ all available tools to vet those seeking entry, including students. The expanded vetting process is expected to require adjustments in consular operations and resource allocation. According to the cable, the administration has raised concerns over certain student visa holders supporting Palestinians and criticizing Israel, labeling these actions as threats to U.S. foreign policy.
Critics argue the administration’s approach infringes upon free speech rights protected by the First Amendment. Recent incidents include the detention of a Turkish Tufts University student for over six weeks due to her critical views on Israel’s actions in Gaza. The administration’s aggressive stance is also reflected in its move to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, affecting approximately 6,800 individuals. This confrontation signals a significant shift in the relationship between the U.S. government and educational institutions, especially regarding policies that challenge government directives. Overall, the crackdown on student visas exemplifies the administration’s effort to tighten immigration controls while also raising alarms about potential violations of civil liberties.
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