The US has begun using artificial intelligence to revoke student visas of foreigners suspected of supporting Hamas. Learn how the “Catch and Revoke” program works, why the decision was made, and what the possible consequences of this US administration policy will be

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The US State Department recently announced the “Catch and Revoke” program, which is based on artificial intelligence and is aimed at identifying and revoking visas of foreign students who are considered supporters of Hamas, a group that has been recognized by the US as a terrorist organization since 1997.

Read about the reasons, possible consequences of such a policy and the reaction of society in this article.

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Why was the “Catch and Revoke” program launched?

The launch of the “Catch and Revoke” program is part of efforts to combat extremism and terrorism in the US using artificial intelligence (AI). In this way, the authorities are trying to identify individuals who may pose a threat to national security. AI tools will be used to monitor the activities of students and identify those who support organizations such as Hamas.

The US leadership emphasizes that this step is aimed at ensuring that individuals who support terrorist organizations cannot use US educational institutions as a platform for radicalization.

The new policy is not only a direct response to concerns about individuals involved in terrorist activities, but also reflects the growing role of AI in national security.

How will the “Catch and Revoke” program work?

The initiative involves using AI to review the social media accounts of international students and analyze their participation in demonstrations against Israel.

The program has already led to the cancellation of at least one student visa, although specific details remain undisclosed. It is only known that the first case under this new initiative involved a student whose visa was revoked after AI-based systems noticed suspicious online activity and links to Hamas demonstrations. The individual’s social media posts and participation in Hamas-related events were significant factors in the decision.

Impact on U.S. Educational Institutions

In addition to President Donald Trump’s recent announcement to revoke student visas, the U.S. is also taking steps to restrict funding for educational institutions that may facilitate or support such demonstrations. There have been reports that some universities and organizations have unwittingly or intentionally provided space for pro-Hamas rallies and events, potentially putting students and faculty at risk. The U.S. Department of Education and other agencies will work to ensure that these institutions are not complicit in fostering extremist sentiment.

Officials have pledged to take a firm stance against institutions that fail to comply with U.S. regulations and allow demonstrations that promote terrorist ideology. This includes cutting off funding and federal support. Such actions would directly affect many universities that rely on government grants for research and financial aid programs. Columbia University, in particular, recently lost $400 million in federal funding over its decision to investigate its ties to the protests.

The Department of Education is currently working with 60 colleges and universities, including such prominent institutions as the University of California, Berkeley and Stanford.

Public Reaction to AI-Based Visa Cancellations and the Aftermath

Critics of the policy have raised concerns about the potential for the U.S. government to overstep its authority, citing the risks of AI-based surveillance infringing on civil liberties, including freedom of speech. While the government insists that the actions are aimed at real threats, questions remain about the potential for abuse and the accuracy of AI tools in assessing a foreigner’s political or ideological preferences.

In response to these concerns, the US has stressed the importance of due process and transparency in the visa revocation process, promising that students affected by the new policy will have the opportunity to appeal the decision to revoke their visas. However, experts suggest that the use of artificial intelligence in national security matters is likely to continue to grow, especially in the face of rising geopolitical tensions and the complexity of the fight against terrorism.

The initiative to revoke student visas for Hamas supporters based on AI highlights the growing interrelationship between technology and security, as well as the evolution of how the US approaches the fight against terrorism in the digital age. It is difficult to say yet about the consequences for international students and educational institutions, but it is clear that artificial intelligence will play a key role in shaping future national security policy.

If you find yourself in a difficult situation abroad, seek advice from a migration lawyer. We help you quickly resolve any issues outside your country of origin.

Reminder! The US has introduced a new immigration policy that requires foreign citizens to register with DHS. These rules came into effect on February 25, 2025. Foreigners who violate the requirements face legal consequences. We have already told you who must register, what the procedure is, and what the new system will change for expats.

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