The U.S. State Department has implemented a new policy, effective today, December 15, mandating stricter screening procedures for all H-1B visa applicants and their dependents seeking H-4 visas. This enhanced scrutiny now includes the systematic screening of applicants’ social media profiles, a measure previously applied to student (F, M) and exchange visitor (J) visa categories.
Under the directive, individuals applying for H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J non-immigrant visas are advised to set their social media accounts to ‘public’ to facilitate the review process. The move, initiated by the Trump administration, expands the scope of digital surveillance in visa applications, signifying a broader focus on applicants’ online activities.
The tightening of the H-1B visa program has drawn criticism from some quarters. American business magnate Elon Musk previously cautioned that restricting the H-1B program could be detrimental.
The State Department emphasized that an American visa is a privilege, not a right, and that all available information is utilized during the screening process to identify applicants deemed inadmissible to the U.S. or who could pose a threat to national security or public safety. The Department underscored that every visa decision is inherently linked to national security interests.
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**Global News Briefs**
**Sydney Bondi Beach Attack Condemned:**
Sydney’s Bondi Beach was the scene of a brutal attack, resulting in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries. Authorities reported that one attacker was killed in a retaliatory action, while another was injured and apprehended. The perpetrator was identified as Ahmed. The incident drew widespread international condemnation, with French President Emmanuel Macron, former U.S. President Donald Trump, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing condolences and denouncing the violence. U.S. officials also condemned the attack, particularly noting its occurrence during a Jewish holiday.
**Progress in Ukraine Ceasefire Talks:**
Steve Witkoff, a special representative for former U.S. President Donald Trump, announced significant progress in ceasefire negotiations with the Ukrainian President. The discussions aim to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in the region.
**Afghanistan Situation and Security Concerns:**
Concerns have been raised regarding U.S.-based Afghan citizens allegedly linked to terrorist organizations. Separately, an extraordinary meeting on the situation in Afghanistan was convened in Tehran, bringing together representatives from China, Russia, Pakistan, and other nations to discuss regional stability.
