Israeli citizens can now travel to US visa-free

WASHINGTON (AP):

The Biden administration is admitting Israel into a select group of countries whose citizens are allowed to travel to the United States without getting a visa in advance.

The decision announced Wednesday comes despite Washington’s concerns about the Israeli government’s treatment of Palestinian Americans and marks a major accomplishment for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has sparred frequently with the Biden administration.

Under the waiver programme, as of November 30, Israelis will be able to travel to the US for business or leisure purposes for up to 90 days without a visa simply by registering with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization. But even if they are authorised to travel under that system, US officials at the airport can still bar them from entering the country.

Israel had been facing a Saturday deadline, the end of the US government’s budget year, to gain admission to the programme without having to requalify for eligibility next year.

VISIT WITHOUT VISAS

The Department of Homeland Security administers the programme, which currently allows citizens of 40 mostly European and Asian countries to travel to the US for three months without visas.

Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said the agreement, after more than a decade of work, “will enhance our two nations’ collaboration on counterterrorism, law enforcement and our other common priorities” and make the allies more secure.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a joint statement with Mayorkas, cited enhanced “freedom of movement for US citizens, including those living in the Palestinian Territories or traveling to and from them”.

Israel’s admission has been a priority for successive Israeli leaders. It comes as Netanyahu is facing months of mass protests against his proposed remake of Israel’s judicial system that critics say will make the country less democratic.

“Today we mark an important and joyful moment for all citizens of Israel,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. “This will save you, citizens of Israel, a lot of time, a lot of trouble and a lot of money.”

He described the decision as “further evidence of the strong ties between Israel and the Untied States” and thanked President Joe Biden and other officials who helped make it possible.