I am still mulling over this, pretty clear the Hamas apologist had no warning, not exactly the first time that something was known to be on the horizon but ignored for whatever reason.
It is a bit like applying for the DV, OK this is sort of guaranteed as long as everyone lives long enough but when you are looking at decades and it is more a Retirement option I have not seen it become an issue.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin/2024/visa-bulletin-for-november-2023.html
It is here and early, but not a lot of change.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/06/alexandria-ocasio-cortez-us-sanctions-venezuela-deportations?CMP=Share_AndroidApp_Other
AOC very unhappy
I can think of a few very viable reasons you would not want to trigger residency.
I can only think of going through a pre inspection site like Dublin so you can back out if needed.
I remember they did not have a card and had not gone home as an adult, did not have a current passport.
It was early this year so I assume they are still in process.
Well they are not even half way yet and as it seems the children are older unlikely all will be included, then you have ones that will marry etc.
Certainly a good idea to have as many petitions out there as you can, good insurance.