WASHINGTON (Monitoring Desk) – A U.S. federal judge has ordered the release of pro-Palestinian Muslim leader Salah Sarsour, who had been in immigration custody for nearly 80 days.
According to international media reports, Judge James Patrick Hanlon stated in his ruling that Sarsour strongly argued he was targeted for expressing support for Palestine, which is a constitutionally protected right under U.S. law.
The court further noted that freedom of expression cannot be restricted in the name of foreign policy.
Salah Sarsour, 53, has been a legal permanent resident of the United States for 32 years and is also the president of a major mosque in Wisconsin. He was detained by immigration authorities in March over allegations of failing to disclose certain information in his residency application.
Following the court’s decision, he was released and said the ruling was a victory for free speech, adding that he would continue to raise his voice for Palestine and human rights.
Human rights activists welcomed the decision, calling it an important legal development for freedom of expression.