The US government has revoked more than 300 visas, targeting students involved in campus protests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the crackdown, stating that the administration was actively identifying and expelling individuals accused of vandalism, harassment, or disrupting universities. The move has sparked criticism, with opponents calling it an attack on free speech.
Visa Revocations and Government Justification
Marco Rubio confirmed that the State Department revoked over 300 visas, including student and visitor permits. He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward those engaging in disruptive actions. Speaking at a press conference in Guyana, he said, “Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visas.” He later reiterated that the administration would continue removing those it deems a threat to US foreign policy.
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Among those affected is Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish student at Tufts University. Federal agents detained her in Massachusetts and revoked her visa. She was later transferred to a detention facility in Louisiana. Rumeysa Ozturk, a Fulbright Scholar, had previously co-authored an article criticizing Tufts’ stance on divestment from companies linked to Israel. Her lawyer argues that she was targeted solely for exercising free speech rights.
Political and Legal Ramifications
The crackdown follows increasing tensions over pro-Palestinian activism on US campuses. The Trump administration argues that certain protests, especially those perceived as antisemitic, undermine national interests. Marco Rubio stated, “The people we’re getting rid of are not protesters. They’re taking over campuses, harassing students, and creating chaos.”
Legal experts question the administration’s justification. Rumeysa Ozturk’s lawyer filed a lawsuit challenging her detention, calling the allegations baseless. A federal judge initially barred officials from moving her out of Massachusetts without notice. However, the Justice Department revealed she had already been transferred.
Critics see these actions as a broader effort to suppress dissent. Supporters of Rumeysa Ozturk say this is the first known immigration arrest of a Boston-area student involved in pro-Palestinian activism. Advocacy groups warn that revoking visas based on political views sets a dangerous precedent.
Marco Rubio remains firm, insisting that such measures will continue. “We want them out. Every one of them I find, we’re going to kick them out,” he declared. As the crackdown intensifies, legal battles and public debate over civil liberties in the US are likely to grow.
