Turkish PhD Student Freed from Immigration Detention After Judge's Order

Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish doctoral student, has been freed from a Louisiana immigration facility after a judge's decision deemed her continued detention unjustified.

Turkish PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk has been released from an immigration detention center in Louisiana just hours after a US District Judge mandated her immediate release. Ozturk, who had been incarcerated for six weeks, expressed her gratitude to supporters gathered outside, stating, "Thank you so much. I am a little bit tired, so I will take some time to rest."

Judge William Sessions described the government's case against her as lacking substantial evidence, emphasizing that Ozturk's constitutional rights had been violated. The student had drawn national attention following her arrest by masked immigration agents after she co-authored a critical article on Israel in her university's newspaper. This incident occurred amidst heightened scrutiny of what the White House has categorized as antisemitic actions on US campuses.

After hearing testimonies, including Ozturk's concerning her Fulbright scholarship and worsening asthma condition during her detention, Judge Sessions ruled there was insufficient evidence to warrant her detention. He stated the government's claims against her revolved merely around her speech, highlighting that "there is no evidence that she has engaged in violence or advocated violence."

Following the judge's ruling, a spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security reiterated the administration's commitment to immigration enforcement and deportations for those they believe do not have a right to stay in the country. Ozturk's plight is part of a broader trend, with similar cases involving international students detained for their political beliefs.

The American Civil Liberties Union, representing Ozturk, hailed her release and underscored the vital First Amendment rights at stake. A representative for Tufts University also expressed satisfaction with the ruling, welcoming Ozturk back to continue her academic pursuits. Meanwhile, Ozturk's case adds to a concerning narrative about the treatment of international students in the US amid escalating tensions surrounding free speech and immigration policies.