Judge orders release of foreign researcher detained over Hamas praise

Published: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 8:16 pm

Judge Orders Release of Foreign Researcher Detained Over Hamas Allegations

A U.S. District Judge has ordered the release of a foreign researcher, Suri, detained over allegations of supporting Hamas, sparking a debate about free speech and immigration law. Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles ruled in Alexandria, Virginia, that Suri, who was being held in Texas, must be allowed to return to Northern Virginia while he challenges his deportation order. The ruling centered on First Amendment protections, emphasizing that political speech, including criticism of U.S. foreign policy and support for Palestinians, is constitutionally protected, even for non-citizens.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has accused Suri of spreading Hamas propaganda and antisemitic rhetoric, and of maintaining a close connection to a senior Hamas advisor, who is reportedly his father-in-law. The government invoked Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows the State Department to revoke visas or deport non-citizens deemed harmful to U.S. foreign policy interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked Suri's visa in March under this provision.

Suri's lawyers argue the government is retaliating against him for his family's political views, particularly his U.S. citizen wife's online support for the Palestinian cause. This case is part of a broader trend, with similar legal challenges emerging regarding campus speech. Two other students, Mohsen Mahdawi and Rumeysa Ozturk, were recently released by federal judges in Vermont after raising similar claims. Hundreds of Georgetown University students, faculty, and alumni, along with Jewish clergy, have voiced support for Suri's release. The government has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the judge's order.

BNN's Perspective: This case highlights the complex intersection of national security concerns, free speech rights, and immigration law. While the government has a responsibility to protect national security, it must also respect the First Amendment. The judge's ruling underscores the importance of protecting political speech, even when it is critical of U.S. foreign policy. The government's use of immigration laws to potentially silence dissent raises concerns about overreach. A balanced approach is needed, ensuring both security and the protection of fundamental rights.

Keywords: Suri, Hamas, deportation, free speech, First Amendment, immigration law, political speech, Palestinian, Georgetown University, Marco Rubio, DHS, antisemitism, foreign policy, Judge Giles, visa revocation, campus speech, non-citizen, legal challenge, release order, Alexandria Virginia

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