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Rubio: Thousands of US Visas Revoked Amid Crackdown
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed that the number of visa revocations under the current immigration crackdown has reached into the thousands. While earlier figures had cited around 300 student and visitor visas canceled as of March, Rubio acknowledged during a Senate appropriations subcommittee hearing that the scope is significantly broader. “Visas are a privilege, not a right,” he declared, emphasizing that he personally signed each revocation order.
This development reflects the Biden administration’s continued shift under pressure from conservative lawmakers and public sentiment to adopt stricter immigration and visa enforcement policies—particularly in cases involving political activism or criticism of American foreign allies.
Pro-Palestinian Supporters Face Expulsions
A major focus of the visa crackdown appears to be targeting individuals seen as sympathizing with the Palestinian cause or openly criticizing Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Rubio justified the revocations by labeling such individuals as potential threats to U.S. diplomatic interests and stability.
One of the most prominent cases involves Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish student at Tufts University, who was detained for more than six weeks. Ozturk had co-authored a campus publication critical of her university’s stance on the Gaza war. Although she was later released by court order, her case has highlighted growing fears that academic freedom and political expression among international students are under threat.
Legal Concerns and Political Backlash
The move has sparked widespread criticism from civil liberties advocates and lawmakers. Many argue the policy sets a dangerous precedent by enabling arbitrary revocation of visas based on anticipated future actions or personal beliefs. Senator Jeff Merkley voiced concern that such decisions bypass due process and infringe on constitutionally protected free speech.
At the same time, the crackdown is being coupled with pressure on universities to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. Institutions have reportedly been warned of potential federal funding cuts if they fail to comply with new policy expectations from Washington.
This sweeping enforcement drive not only marks a sharp escalation in immigration control but also raises uncomfortable questions about how far the state can go in monitoring ideology and political expression.
