The US is implementing new immigration screening measures that include checking applicants' social media for anti-American sentiments, sparking concerns about vague definitions, potential misuse, and comparisons to McCarthyism among critics and experts.
USCIS is updating its policy manual to consider anti-American activities and support for terrorist organizations as negative factors in discretionary decisions for immigration benefits, including social media vetting, emphasizing rigorous screening to prevent granting benefits to those who despise or promote anti-American ideologies.
Thousands of Iranians gathered in Tehran to mark the anniversary of the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover, chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans while condemning U.S. support for Israel's strikes in Gaza. The rally coincided with the fourth week of the Israel-Hamas war, with protesters expressing solidarity with Palestine and calling for an immediate cease-fire. Iranian officials criticized the U.S. for its support of Israel and called for Muslim-majority nations to halt economic cooperation with the Jewish state. The U.S. State Department condemned Iran's detention of foreign citizens and its support for Hamas and other terrorist groups.