Trump vows to impose stricter immigration measures, target Hamas sympathizers in Iowa rally

Former President Donald Trump, speaking at a rally in Iowa, has reaffirmed his commitment to strict immigration policies. He promised to prohibit refugees from Gaza from entering the United States and to expand the travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries if he secures a second term.

Trump’s proposal includes conducting “ideological screening” for all immigrants to exclude those who sympathize with Hamas or other Muslim extremist groups. The former president also emphasized his intent to deport resident aliens with “jihadist sympathies” and send immigration agents to monitor “pro-jihadist demonstrations.”

These proposals represent a significant expansion of his previous controversial immigration policies, which have been met with criticism from immigrant rights and civil liberties activists. Trump’s campaign efforts in Iowa have intensified as he seeks to secure a decisive victory in the state’s caucuses and avoid a repeat of his second-place finish in 2016.

During his campaign event in Iowa, Trump garnered the endorsement of Iowa’s Republican attorney general, Brenna Bird, as he continues his push to consolidate support and secure a commanding victory in the upcoming caucuses. His campaign is focused on organizing and mobilizing supporters through caucus pledge cards to ensure a strong showing.

Trump’s rivals for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, are also active in Iowa, attempting to challenge his dominance in the state. While Trump holds an advantage, the gap between him and the second-place candidate and the performance of the rest of the field remain significant factors as the race unfolds.