Immigration Minister Marc Miller has addressed U.S. Republican senators' claims that Canada’s immigration program for Palestinians from Gaza poses a threat to American security. The senators alleged the program could allow individuals with potential ties to Hamas easier access to the U.S., Miller stated that Palestinian applicants receive temporary visas only valid within Canada and that entry into the U.S. remains subject to American policies and security screenings involving U.S. cooperation.
Despite Miller's assurances, many critics argue that Canada’s immigration policies can be lax, pointing to instances of individuals in Canada who support Hamas or have ties to the Islamic Republic of Iran. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has encountered over 233 individuals on their terrorist watchlist at the U.S.-Canada border this year, reflecting growing concerns over northern border security.
Since the conflict between Hamas and Israel began in October, 189 individuals have arrived in Canada under a temporary special measures policy. This policy was introduced to facilitate the safe entry of extended family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents from Gaza. Miller emphasized that security screenings for the program are rigorous and tailored to the specific realities of applicants' locations. He reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to ensuring both the safety of its citizens and the facilitation of safe exits for extended family members from Gaza.
