Secretary of State Marco Rubio has instructed American diplomats to begin carefully scrutinizing the social media histories of visa applicants, with a special focus on identifying anti-American and anti-Israel sentiment, according to The New York Times.

The directive, issued last week, aligns with an earlier executive order from President Donald Trump, signed in January, which demands that all foreign nationals seeking entry to the United States be assessed for their commitment to core American principles. The order calls for ensuring that those entering the country “do not bear hostile attitudes toward its citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles,” and do not advocate for or support designated terrorist groups.

Rubio described the effort as “long overdue” and critical to national security, noting that the digital footprints of applicants often reveal more than in-person interviews ever could.

“If someone despises the United States, mocks our values, or spreads hateful lies about Israel—one of our most important allies—why should we hand them a visa?” Rubio asked reporters on Thursday. “This isn’t censorship. It’s common sense.”

Rubio further revealed that since taking office in late January, the State Department has revoked at least 300 visas, a significant number of them student visas, due to concerning online behavior.

The policy reflects a growing recognition that digital threats and ideological hostility don’t stop at a country’s borders. With many radical movements using social media to organize, recruit, and incite violence, U.S. officials say it’s only prudent to treat applicants’ online activity as a serious component of background checks.

Supporters of the policy say it strengthens national sovereignty, prevents bad actors from slipping through the cracks, and sends a clear message that America’s welcome mat is not extended to those who wish to undermine it from within.

“This isn’t about silencing dissent,” Rubio emphasized. “It’s about ensuring that those who come to this country do so with respect for our laws, our people, and our democratic allies.”

The move has been welcomed by pro-Israel groups and national security advocates who argue that foreign nationals should be held to a high standard when it comes to views that contradict the values of the nation they seek to enter.

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