The Australian government has reinstated visas for Palestinians fleeing Gaza, following criticism over visa cancellations earlier in March. The Palestine Australia Relief and Action (PARA) group confirmed that eight out of 11 affected Palestinians have had their visas reinstated, allowing them to travel to Australia.
Rasha Abbas, executive director of PARA, expressed relief that those affected can now make their way to Australia. The decision to revoke visas without warning had left Palestinians stranded in a third country, sparking backlash against the government. The Department of Home Affairs claimed the cancellations were due to concerns about possible visa violations.
“We are delighted and happy that they are able to travel to Australia,” Abbas shared with Nine Entertainment newspapers. The PARA group is now coordinating flight bookings for the affected individuals and continuing to work with the government to resolve visa issues for the remaining visa holders.
Since the recent conflict in Gaza, the Australian government has granted 2,200 visas for Palestinians and 2,400 for Israelis. The reinstatement of visas for Palestinians reflects a broader effort to support individuals affected by the crisis and facilitate their arrival in Australia. The move comes as a welcome development for those impacted by the sudden visa cancellations.
