A federal judge has ordered the immediate transfer of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University student, from detention in Louisiana to Vermont. Ozturk's student visa was revoked after she published an opinion piece critical of the Israeli government. She was subsequently detained by immigration officials in Louisiana.
The judge's ruling stated that Ozturk's case should be handled in Vermont, where she attends school. Her legal team has argued that the visa revocation was a direct result of her political views and a violation of her First Amendment rights.
"This is a victory for free speech and due process," said a statement released by Ozturk's lawyers. "We believe that Ms. Ozturk was unfairly targeted because of her opinions, and we are confident that she will ultimately be vindicated."
The government has yet to comment on the ruling. The case has drawn national attention, raising concerns about academic freedom and the treatment of international students who express controversial opinions. The transfer is expected to occur within the next few days, and Ozturk's legal team will continue to fight for the reinstatement of her visa.
Judge Orders Transfer of Tufts Student Detained Over Israel Criticism
A federal judge has ruled that Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University student, must be transferred to Vermont. Ozturk was detained in Louisiana after her student visa was revoked following the publication of an opinion article critical of Israel. The court order mandates her return to Vermont while legal proceedings continue. Her lawyers argue the visa revocation was politically motivated and violated her free speech rights.