Israel’s bid to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has taken a step forward, as a month-long trial is set to begin. Starting on Thursday, Israeli authorities will offer unrestricted passage to U.S. citizens of Palestinian origin who are residents of the West Bank. This trial is seen as crucial to Israel’s aspiration to be part of the VWP, which would allow its citizens to travel to the United States without the need for a visa.
One of the main obstacles hindering Israel’s admission into the VWP has been the restrictions imposed on Palestinian Americans from the Israeli-occupied West Bank. However, it is expected that Israel will announce policy changes to ensure equal treatment for all U.S. citizens, regardless of their national origin, religion, or ethnicity. This move is in line with the expectations of the U.S. government, as stated by State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller.
The U.S. government will make a decision on whether Israel should be admitted to the VWP by the end of September. In preparation for this potential entry, Israel’s ambassador to Washington, Michael Herzog, is set to sign a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Homeland Security Department to establish the terms of Israel’s participation in the program.
The trial itself will be observed by a delegation from the U.S. State Department and Homeland Security Department. It will include visits to Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv and crossings between the West Bank and Israel. The aim is to assess the operations during the trial and ensure that the policies are implemented and compliant with the requirements of the Visa Waiver Program.
The trial’s start was not widely publicized, but it is expected to proceed smoothly. If successful, Israeli citizens will be able to benefit from the VWP starting in October. This will significantly ease travel for Israeli citizens and further strengthen the ties between the U.S. and Israel.
The issue of Israel’s admission to the VWP was recently discussed during a meeting between President Joe Biden and Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The progress made was reviewed, and it was anticipated that the process would soon be completed.
During the trial, U.S. officials will be closely monitoring whether Palestinian Americans or other Arab Americans are subjected to selective questioning by Israeli security personnel. It is crucial that there is no discrimination based on a person’s background or political beliefs.
The number of Americans of Palestinian descent is estimated to be between 122,500 and 220,000, with approximately 45,000 to 60,000 residing in the West Bank. Israel has stated that its policy is not to restrict entry to any American “BDS-ers,” referring to individuals who support the boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement against Israel.
The successful participation of Israel in the VWP would be a significant development in U.S.-Israel relations, particularly as tensions have arisen over Israeli policies towards the Palestinians and the country’s judiciary reforms. The trial period will provide important insights and contribute to the decision-making process for Israel’s admission to the VWP.