This information was revealed in a report by CBS News, which cited internal documents as its source.
One of the proposals under consideration involves utilizing the United States Refugee Admissions Program to grant refugee status to Palestinians who have managed to escape the violence in the Gaza Strip and have found temporary refuge in Egypt. However, the success of this initiative would hinge on the cooperation of the Egyptian government. The report also suggested that Palestinians with family ties in the U.S. could be granted entry.
The discussions within the administration reportedly involve multiple federal agencies and are exploring various arrangements to facilitate this potential refugee admission. Prospective refugees would be required to undergo screenings to assess their medical condition, eligibility, and any potential security risks. Furthermore, they would need to provide evidence of persecution, a requirement that could pose challenges for those claiming to flee persecution from Israel, a key U.S. ally.
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However, individuals could potentially claim they are fleeing from Hamas, which the U.S. recognizes as a terrorist organization. Refugee status would afford these individuals the opportunity for permanent residence in the U.S., a pathway to citizenship, and financial assistance.
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If implemented, this policy would represent a significant departure from the traditional approach of the U.S. refugee program, which has not typically allowed large numbers of Palestinians into the country. Over the past decade, the U.S. has admitted over 400,000 refugees, including 56 Palestinians in the fiscal year 2023 prior to the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, and at least 16 between October of last year and March 31, according to State Department data.
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The exact number of Gazans the administration is considering admitting into the U.S. remains unclear. Requests for comment from the White House, Department of Homeland Security, and State Department went unanswered.
President Biden, 81, has faced mounting pressure from progressive factions over the Israel-Hamas conflict, with calls for increased humanitarian aid for Palestinians and a tougher stance against Israel. The conflict was triggered by a surprise attack from Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims that 34,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, a figure that has been questioned by pro-Israel experts and officials.
As the November presidential election approaches, U.S. immigration policy and border policy are emerging as contentious issues for the Biden administration.
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