Israel recently declared its intention to modify travel rules for Americans living in Gaza, following criticism about omitting Palestinian Americans in Gaza from the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The announcement came from Gil Bringer, the vice head of the Population Immigration and Border Authority (PIBA).
Responding to Feedback and Critiques
Historically, Palestinian Americans in Gaza didn't qualify for the 90-day entry permits available to other US nationals. This distinction was highlighted when the agreement between the US and Israel, signed a month ago, revealed a differing approach to Palestinians from the West Bank compared to those from Gaza.
The agreement was unclear about which Israeli airports Palestinian Americans from Gaza could use. Now, with the revised rules, Palestinian Americans from Gaza who pass security checks can visit Israel with the B2 tourist visa.
Moreover, starting from September 15th, they can opt to leave from Ben Gurion Airport. Although they can enter Israel through the Erez Crossing, they can transition to Ben Gurion Airport after moving into the West Bank via the Allenby Crossing.
This alternative offers a quicker journey compared to traveling through Cairo's main airport. The agreement also touches upon the topic of close relatives in Gaza.
Bringer highlighted that American nationals with family connections in Gaza can request a 90-day entry permit to Gaza. This strategy aims to satisfy the US's expectation for VWP participant nations to extend equal travel privileges to all its nationals.
Still, several, including Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen, have raised issues about potential biases in the agreement. Van Hollen argues that this agreement establishes an unequal system and doesn't align with the US policy of equal rights for its citizens.
Thus, he's in discussions with the concerned authorities for a clearer understanding and potential resolution, but with the agreement already in place, significant changes might be challenging.
Enhancing Transit Experiences at Border Points
To align with VWP standards, Israel has been proactive in addressing reciprocity issues and bettering the transit experiences at its border crossings. The agreement requires Israel to inform US officials when a travel permit application gets rejected by the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT).
Teams from both the US State Department and the Homeland Security Department are overseeing the treatment of US nationals at Israeli border points to ensure compliance with the deal. Israel, keen to join the VWP, understands the importance of honoring the agreement, which would allow its residents to visit the US visa-free.
Should Israel fulfill all prerequisites, its residents might be able to visit the US visa-free by October 1st. The recent changes for Palestinian Americans in Gaza indicate a move towards broader inclusivity.
Despite existing hurdles, Israel's measures focus on addressing feedback and aligning with the agreement's stipulations. Both countries remain committed to ensuring the accord is respected, ensuring equal travel privileges for all.
