(Washington) Joe Biden, criticized by part of his electorate for his policy of firm support for Israel, has decided to suspend for 18 months the expulsions of Palestinians living in the United States, the White House announced on Wednesday.
“In light of the continuing conflict and humanitarian needs on the ground,” the US president signed a memorandum that “would protect most Palestinians living in the United States, with certain exceptions,” the security adviser explained. American national Jake Sullivan in a press release.
People convicted by the courts or “considered a danger to public security” would not benefit from this pause in expulsions, he clarified.
According to New York Timesthe announcement could benefit around 6,000 people.
PHOTO TOM BRENNER, NEW YORK TIMES
US President Joe Biden
The Democratic president, candidate for a second term, faces virulent criticism of his position regarding the war in the Gaza Strip, mainly coming from the progressive electorate and Americans of Arab origin.
Joe Biden, a fervent supporter of Israel, is however increasingly revealing his frustration with the military operations carried out by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, following the unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7.
He recently described the Israeli response as “excessive”, and increased warnings of a potential offensive against the Palestinian town of Rafah, on the border with Egypt.