Representative Tom Tiffany from Wisconsin voiced concerns on Thursday regarding the Biden administration’s proposal to admit certain Palestinians from Gaza as refugees, stating that such a plan should be halted due to inadequate vetting procedures.
Tiffany emphasized his stance during an appearance on “The Chris Salcedo Show,” stressing that individuals holding Palestinian passports should not be permitted entry into the United States. He argued that past actions and behaviors demonstrated by some Palestinians, including events on Oct. 7, indicate a lack of willingness to assimilate into civil society.
Drawing attention to neighboring countries like Egypt and other Arabic nations that restrict Palestinian entry, Tiffany questioned the rationale behind welcoming them into the U.S.
Internal government documents obtained by CBS News revealed discussions within the Biden administration regarding the potential resettlement of Palestinians with close ties to U.S. residents or citizens. One proposal involves utilizing the United States Refugee Admissions Program to admit Palestinians who have fled Gaza and entered Egypt.
Additionally, top U.S. officials have explored the possibility of admitting Palestinians with American relatives as refugees. However, Tiffany raised doubts about the administration’s ability to effectively vet these individuals, referencing previous instances such as the influx of Afghan evacuees in August 2021.
Expressing skepticism toward the Biden administration’s assurances, Tiffany argued against admitting individuals from the region without comprehensive vetting measures in place.
The CBS report outlined eligibility criteria for Palestinians seeking refugee status in the U.S., including medical and security screenings. If approved, refugees would gain permanent residency status along with resettlement benefits such as housing assistance and a pathway to citizenship.
