Turkish Doctoral Student Detained by U.S. Authorities Over Alleged Hamas Support

The arrest near Boston has raised concerns about civil rights, academic freedom, and the use of immigration enforcement for political purposes.

A Turkish doctoral student from Tufts University was detained by U.S. Department of Homeland Security agents near her apartment in Massachusetts on allegations of supporting Hamas.
Surveillance footage shows plainclothes officers approaching and arresting the visibly distressed student, sparking criticism from civil rights groups and local officials.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell condemned the arrest, describing it as an act of intimidation rather than a public safety measure.
The student, who held a valid visa, co-authored a 2024 article advocating for recognizing genocide against Palestinians and divestment from companies linked to Israel.
Protests demanding her release have erupted in Somerville, Massachusetts, as her lawyer reports being unable to contact her or determine her current location.