In just over a week, a Rebel News petition urging the Australian government to reject all visa applications from Gaza has garnered more than 10,000 signatures.

The petition, launched in response to heightened security fears, is gaining momentum as Australians voice concerns over the potential terror threat posed by individuals fleeing the region.

🚨This is why Australia must REJECT every visa application from Gaza

The last thing we need a week after ASIO raised the terror threat level is to import people from a place where 73% of the population supports terrorism.

✍️ SIGN THE PETITION: https://t.co/cuXIKrH3nY pic.twitter.com/V4iNS2WgWY

— Avi Yemini (@OzraeliAvi) August 15, 2024

The petition follows on from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s recent demands for stricter immigration controls. Dutton has called for a complete ban on Gazan refugees, arguing that accepting individuals from the war-torn area could compromise national security.

He cited the recent atrocities committed by Hamas as a significant risk factor, highlighting that Australians would be alarmed by the prospect of admitting people from a region associated with terrorist activities.

✍️ SIGN & SHARE the petition at https://t.co/cuXIKrH3nY to join Peter, Pauline and Tony in calling on the government to REJECT all visas from Gaza! https://t.co/558vcFdc1M

— Avi Yemini (@OzraeliAvi) August 15, 2024

Dutton's stance has sparked debate, particularly after ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess assured the public that thorough security checks are conducted on all potential refugees. Despite these assurances, Dutton remains sceptical, urging the government to err on the side of caution.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended the government's approach, insisting that national security is being carefully managed with the advice of relevant agencies. However, the rapid growth of Rebel News' petition indicates that a significant portion of the Australian public shares Dutton's concerns.

As the petition continues to gain traction, the pressure is mounting on the federal government to respond to these escalating security fears.