JERUSALEM (CNN) -- Citing security concerns, the U.S. State Department has revoked the visas it recently issued to three Gaza students who were awarded Fulbright scholarships to study in the United States. Sari Bashi, who advocates freedom of movement for Palestinians, says their access to education is restricted. It marks the second time in two months that the United States has gone back on its offer to the Palestinian students to take part in the American government-sponsored scholarship program. The three students who had their visas revoked were sent a letter from the American Consulate in Jerusalem, dated August 4.
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U.S. State Department cites security concerns as reason visas were withdrawn
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Three Palestinian students were among seven who had earlier had visas pulled
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Israel reportedly acts to prevent the students from leaving Gaza
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Advocacy group says Palestinians need more access to higher education
On the matter of the three students, the official said: "The process of @placeholder-American contacts on the matter did not cease, and more specific information was provided."