Washington, DC- Anti-terrorism legislation introduced by Congressman Ron Paul today passed unanimously in the House International Relations committee. Paul sits on the committee, which plays a key role in developing new homeland security policies. Paul’s bill implements tough new visa rules aimed at preventing terrorists from entering the country. Specifically, the bill requires the State department to apply extreme scrutiny before issuing student and diversity visas to any individuals from terror-sponsoring nations.

“We must take control of our borders and prevent potential terrorists from entering the country,” Paul stated. “Most of the criminals responsible for the September 11th attacks entered the country using student visas, so we hardly can continue to approve such visas for people who view America as a hated foe. Visas should not serve as a revolving door that enables our worst enemies to live among us.”

“If we are serious about conducting a war on terrorism, we cannot simultaneously give aid and comfort to our enemies by allowing them to live in the U.S.,” Paul concluded. “Common sense dictates that we take immediate action to prevent potential terrorists from obtaining visas.”

The State department list of nations that do not cooperate with America’s anti-terrorism efforts consists of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Syria, North Korea, and Cuba. Paul wants the State department to add Saudi Arabia to the list, given the overwhelming evidence of Saudi support and funding for al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups.

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