Legal Battles and University Support
, a doctoral student, was detained by ICE and moved to , sparking a legal battle and public outcry. Tufts University has petitioned for her release, emphasizing her status as a valued community member.
Ozturk's detention is part of a broader trend of the Trump administration revoking visas of students engaged in pro-Palestinian activism, using a provision of the to justify the arrests.
Government Claims and Public Reaction
claims Ozturk supported Hamas, a designation not substantiated with evidence. Secretary of State confirmed the revocation of over 300 visas, including Ozturk's, framing it as an effort to curb "pro-terrorist, anti-Semitic, anti-American activity."
Friends and colleagues of Ozturk dispute the government's claims, highlighting her limited activism and focusing on her academic pursuits. Public rallies and university support reflect widespread concern over free speech implications and the treatment of international students.