U.S REVOKES 80,000 NON-IMMIGRANT VISAS, SAYS STATE DEPARTMENT . (PHOTO).

 US revokes 80,000 non-immigrant visas, says State Department 

Since January, the Trump administration has revoked 80,000 nonimmigrant visas for a range of offenses, prioritizing national security, a State Department official said.

Tommy Pigott, the department’s deputy spokesperson, said the most common reasons for revocation were driving under the influence, theft, and assault. “We will not tolerate people — foreigners here on visas — that break our laws. Being here is a privilege, it’s not a right,” Pigott said on Friday.

Pigott emphasized that the revocations are a matter of national security, dismissing claims that individuals were targeted for their political or social views. The administration has increased social media vetting and expanded visa screening, including revoking thousands of student visas earlier this year for overstays and, in a few cases, alleged support of terrorism.

Last month, the department revoked visas for at least six individuals over social media comments regarding the Sept. 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The administration has faced criticism for seeking to expel foreign-born individuals, including a former Columbia University student and green card holder, for supporting Palestinians and criticizing Israel during the Gaza conflict. Officials maintain that some protesters posed threats to U.S. foreign policy or expressed support for Hamas.

Pigott said, “If you take actions, such as breaking our laws, supporting terrorism, or actions that counter the terms of your visa … you may see that visa revoked.”