President Joe Biden has granted Palestinians in the United States temporary protection from deportation amid the war in the Gaza Strip, according to a new document.
As a result, the measure comes at a time when the White House is facing pressure from the Arab-American community over the situation in Gaza.
At the end of last year, members of the Democratic Party called on Biden to increase temporary protections for Palestinians in the US.
They argued that those already in the country “should not be forced to return to the Palestinian territories, consistent with President Biden’s stated commitment to protecting Palestinian civilians.”
Additionally, the US president has the power to authorize what is known as deferred enforced departure, which protects people benefiting from the measure from being deported for a period. Those who qualify under this guidance are also eligible for work permits.
“In light of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian needs in the region, President Biden signed a memorandum directing the delay in the removal of certain Palestinians who are in the United States, giving them a temporary safe haven,” said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement this Wednesday (14).
Those convicted of crimes or who pose a threat to public safety are not eligible for the measure.