US to block visas for Christian genocide sponsors, terrorist sympathisers globally
The US government has announced that it will henceforth deny visas to individuals and their immediate families found to be Christian genocide sponsors or terrorist sympathisers worldwide.
A statement issued by the US embassy in Abuja on Wednesday said those affected include people who have directed, authorised, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom.
The statement explained that the decision responds to alleged mass killings and violence against Christians by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani militias, and other violent actors in Nigeria and beyond.
Titled “Combating Egregious Anti-Christian Violence in Nigeria and Globally,” the statement, attributed to the U.S. State Department, is signed by Marco Rubio, US secretary of state.
According to the statement, the move aligns with a new policy under section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which empowers the state department to restrict visa issuance to individuals who have violated religious freedom—and, where appropriate, their immediate family members.
“The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria and numerous other countries. This policy will apply to Nigeria and any other governments or individuals engaged in violations of religious freedom,” Rubio was quoted saying.
