President Joe Biden has taken decisive action to shield Palestinians residing in the United States from deportation for the next 18 months. The move, announced by the White House, comes as a response to the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
Under the directive, approximately 6,000 Palestinians in the US will be granted “deferred enforced departure,” providing them with a temporary reprieve from deportation. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan highlighted the deteriorating conditions in Gaza, citing the devastating impact of the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas and the subsequent military response from Israel.
Sullivan emphasized that President Biden’s decision aims to offer Palestinians in the US a “temporary safe haven” amidst the ongoing crisis. However, individuals who voluntarily return to the Palestinian territories will forfeit their protected status.
The announcement comes amid mounting pressure on the Biden administration to do more to support Palestinians in Gaza and facilitate humanitarian aid to the embattled enclave. Criticism has been leveled at the President for not advocating for a permanent ceasefire in the conflict, drawing scrutiny from Arab-American and Muslim leaders.
Abed Ayoub, executive director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, welcomed the decision, stating that there is a “desperate need” for measures to safeguard Palestinians in the US. He emphasized the ongoing plight of Palestinians in Gaza, where thousands have lost their lives in Israeli attacks since the October 7 incident, which saw Hamas militants perpetrate a deadly assault in southern Israel.
As tensions persist in the region, President Biden’s move to provide temporary protection to Palestinians in the US underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. It also reflects efforts to balance security concerns with the imperative to uphold human rights and provide support to vulnerable populations affected by conflict.
