The U.S. State Department announced Saturday it is suspending all visitor visas for individuals from Gaza amid a full review of how recent temporary medical-humanitarian visas were issued. This follows investigative journalist Laura Loomer’s report that several Gazan families entered the U.S. through San Francisco and Houston, allegedly with assistance from the group “Heal Palestine.” Loomer questioned how these individuals obtained visas under the Trump administration, raising concerns about national security and accusing state leaders of harboring refugees.

According to State Department data, over 3,800 B1/B2 visitor visas have been issued to holders of Palestinian Authority travel documents, including 640 in May. These visas allow for medical treatment in the U.S., but recent scrutiny has intensified due to the sensitive political and security implications.

Loomer’s posts sparked backlash from Republican lawmakers. Rep. Chip Roy of Texas vowed to investigate the matter, while Rep. Randy Fine of Florida called the situation a “national security risk.” Their concerns reflect growing unease within the GOP regarding who is entering the country and under what circumstances.

A leaked State Department cable revealed that since April, visa applicants who have traveled to Gaza since 2007 must undergo mandatory social media vetting. If potentially concerning information is found during this vetting process, a Security Advisory Opinion (SAO) must be submitted for further national security review.

This development comes as President Trump continues to implement strict immigration measures. In June, he barred nationals from 12 countries and imposed partial restrictions on seven others, citing terrorism concerns. The U.S. action mirrors a recent French decision to reassess its own visa policies for Palestinians following a case involving antisemitic content shared by a student from Gaza.