Attorney General Jason Miyares of Virginia has joined a coalition of 20 state attorneys general in urging the removal of foreign student visa holders who endorse or provide support to terrorist organizations. In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, the coalition emphasized the need to take prompt action against individuals involved in terror activities.
"The terrorist attack on Israel cannot be justified or rationalized. Supporting or endorsing the terrorist organizations who committed the acts is not only immoral, but un-American and peddles dangerous misinformation. Foreign student visa holders endorsing or supporting terrorist organizations do not deserve the privilege and opportunity provided to them," stated Attorney General Miyares.
The coalition's call for action comes in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, which resulted in the loss of numerous innocent lives. The attack has sparked a rise in antisemitic activities on college campuses, with threats of violence against Jewish students and individuals. Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), a group associated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, both designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the U.S. Department of State, has issued a "call to action" for its college chapters to hold demonstrations nationwide.
The coalition's argument is grounded in the Immigration and Nationality Act, which declares that any alien who endorses or espouses terrorist activity or supports a terrorist organization is ineligible for a visa and admission into the United States. Furthermore, providing material support or resources to a foreign terrorist organization is considered a federal crime.
The letter sent by the coalition to Secretary Blinken and Secretary Mayorkas highlights the urgent need to enforce these legal provisions and remove foreign student visa holders involved in terrorist activities from the country.
The Attorney General's office provided a link to the full letter for further reference. The coalition's collective effort aims to ensure the safety and security of the American people by taking a strong stand against individuals who support terror groups.
As the coalition's call gains momentum, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to this pressing issue.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/2635-november-13-2023-attorney-general-miyares-joins-20-state-coalition-calling-for-removal-of-student-visa-holders-who-provide-support-to-terror-groups