Reuters reports that the US State Department is reportedly planning to use artificial intelligence (AI) to revoke the visas of foreign students deemed to be supporting Hamas. This has raised significant concerns among human rights advocates and free speech supporters.
According to Axios, the plan, dubbed "Catch and Revoke," will utilize AI to scrutinize the social media accounts of tens of thousands of student visa holders to identify potentially pro-Hamas statements.
Amidst the conflict between Israel and Hamas, numerous students and groups across the US have organized protests expressing concern over the plight of Palestinians in Gaza. Free speech advocacy groups, such as the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), argue that AI cannot accurately interpret the nuances of complex and controversial issues. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) similarly expressed concern that this move could erode constitutionally protected free speech and privacy rights.
Meanwhile, Fox News reports that one student's visa has already been revoked for alleged involvement in "Hamas-supporting activities," marking what is believed to be the first such action by the government. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on social media that the US has zero tolerance for foreign visitors who support terrorism, and violators will face visa denial, revocation, and deportation.
In January, the Trump administration signed an executive order aimed at combating antisemitism and pledged to deport non-citizen students participating in pro-Palestinian protests. Reports indicate Trump stated he would cut federal funding to educational institutions that permit "illegal protests," claiming that "provocateurs will be jailed or permanently returned to their countries of origin."
However, many pro-Palestinian groups include Jewish individuals who oppose antisemitism and call for a rejection of extremist behavior. The escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant civilian casualties and a humanitarian crisis.
Key Points:
🌍 The US State Department plans to use AI to revoke the visas of foreign students suspected of supporting Hamas.
🗣️ Free speech advocates express concerns that AI cannot accurately interpret nuanced statements.
📜 The Trump administration pledged to deport non-citizen students participating in pro-Palestinian protests.
