The U.S. government made an announcement regarding Israel’s inclusion in a program that grants Israeli citizens visa-free entry, commencing on November 30. This move is expected to streamline travel between the two countries and promote tourism, business, and diplomatic relations.
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to enter the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. This streamlined process is designed to encourage international travel and strengthen diplomatic ties.
The decision to admit Israel into this program has sparked protests from some Palestinians who argue that Israel has a history of discriminating against Arab Americans and subjecting them to border-related harassment over several decades. On Wednesday, four Democratic U.S. senators, including Chris Van Hollen, asserted that Israel has not met the prerequisites for treating all American travelers fairly.
To qualify for participation in this program, which permits visitors to stay in the United States for up to 90 days without a visa, countries must fulfill specific criteria related to counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security, and border management. Additionally, they are required to provide equal treatment to all U.S. travelers. Consequently, Israel is expected to grant unrestricted passage to Palestinian Americans at Ben Gurion airport.
This development is expected to boost tourism and facilitate business exchanges between the two nations. It will also make it more convenient for Israeli citizens to visit the United States for various purposes, including meetings, conferences, and cultural exchanges.
