Washington, D.C. — August 17, 2025 | The United States has suspended the issuance of medical visas for patients from Gaza following a storm of controversy triggered by online posts from a far-right influencer questioning the integrity of the program.
The program, which for years allowed critically ill Gazans to access advanced treatment in American hospitals, has been put on hold pending a policy review. U.S. State Department officials confirmed the decision, stating the pause is to “ensure the program cannot be exploited for non-medical purposes.”
Humanitarian groups have condemned the move, warning that the suspension could endanger the lives of innocent patients, including children with severe health conditions. Medical advocacy organizations urged Washington to reverse the decision, stressing that humanitarian considerations should not be sacrificed to political pressure.
The influencer’s claims — alleging the visa scheme was vulnerable to extremist abuse — spread rapidly online, despite the absence of publicly available evidence. The viral debate has since reignited political arguments in Washington over immigration, border security, and America’s responsibility in international humanitarian efforts.
Diplomatic observers caution that the suspension could worsen humanitarian suffering in Gaza and risk straining U.S. relations with aid partners in the region.
