DeSantis Criticizes Biden's Plan to Grant Citizenship to Palestinians, Citing Terrorism Concerns

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has strongly criticized President Joe Biden's potential plan to grant U.S. citizenship to thousands of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, claiming it would allow Hamas terrorists into the country. The plan, as reported by CBS News, would use the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program to provide refugee status to Gazans who have fled to Egypt and have ties to the United States.

DeSantis equated the population in Gaza, nearly half of whom are children, with the Hamas militant organization that governs the region.

"I didn't even think Biden was crazy enough to do this. We've seen the reflections in our society of people protesting in favor of Hamas terrorists. These are people that cooked babies in ovens while they were raping the babies' mothers. To take people from that part of the world, and import those blood feuds to this country, that's not in our interest," DeSantis said, referencing reports of violence during a recent terrorist attack in Israel.

The governor argued that the plan is a misguided attempt to appease the anti-Israel wing of the Democratic party and would not benefit the United States.

Republican lawmakers, including Senators Rick Scott, Marsha Blackburn, and Tim Scott, as well as Representative Andrew Clyde, have also expressed concerns about the potential for Hamas terrorists to enter the country under this program. They have called on the president to focus instead on securing the release of American hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

Why this matters: The debate over granting refugee status to Palestinians highlights the complex geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The potential policy shift also raises questions about U.S. immigration priorities and national security concerns.

The White House has not confirmed or denied the report, stating that the U.S. categorically rejects any actions leading to the forced relocation of Palestinians. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said they have nothing to announce at this time. Under the proposed plan, Palestinians who pass eligibility, medical, and security screenings and prove they are fleeing persecution would qualify for refugee status, granting them permanent residency, resettlement benefits, and a path to American citizenship.

DeSantis also criticized pro-Palestinian protesters, calling them "pro-Hamas people" and saying he would send the Justice Department after universities that allow "antisemitism" and a "hostile environment" for Jewish students. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in the deaths of at least 1,100 people, including several American citizens, and over 30,000 deaths in retaliation attacks on Gaza.

Key Takeaways

• DeSantis criticizes Biden's plan to grant U.S. citizenship to Palestinian refugees.
• DeSantis equates Gaza population with Hamas, claims it would allow terrorists entry.
• GOP lawmakers express concerns about potential for Hamas terrorists to enter U.S.
• White House has not confirmed or denied the reported plan, says no announcement yet.
• Ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has resulted in over 1,100 deaths, including Americans.