Community Calls for Transparency and Release as Immigration Authorities Detain Palestinian Activist

July 5, 2025 — El Paso, Texas: Ward Sakeik, a Palestinian-born activist and U.S. resident, has been placed in detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), prompting outcry from immigration rights groups, legal advocates, and community leaders nationwide.

Sakeik, who has lived in the United States for over a decade, was taken into custody last week during what his attorney described as a “routine check-in” at an ICE field office in El Paso. According to his legal team, he was unexpectedly detained without prior notice or explanation of the charges being brought against him.

ICE Cites Visa Irregularities, Advocates Dispute Claims

In a brief statement, ICE officials confirmed the detention but did not provide extensive details. An agency spokesperson said Sakeik is being held due to “visa status irregularities” and is undergoing “standard immigration enforcement review procedures.”

However, his legal representatives and several immigrant advocacy groups allege that the detention is politically motivated, citing his outspoken activism in support of Palestinian human rights and his involvement in peaceful demonstrations across several U.S. cities.

“Ward Sakeik has complied with every legal requirement and check-in,” said Rosa Martinez, an immigration attorney representing Sakeik. “There is no valid reason for his detention. This appears to be punitive and intended to silence dissent.”

Community and Political Response

Protests erupted outside ICE facilities in El Paso, New York, and Los Angeles this week, with demonstrators demanding Sakeik’s immediate release. Signs reading “Free Ward Now” and “No Justice in Detention” were seen outside the El Paso Processing Center, where he is reportedly being held.

Civil rights organizations including the ACLU, the Center for Constitutional Rights, and several Palestinian solidarity networks have joined the growing chorus of voices calling for transparency.

U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar issued a statement on Friday:

“The detention of Ward Sakeik raises serious questions about freedom of expression and the rights of immigrants under U.S. law. We are monitoring this situation closely and demand full due process.”

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Who Is Ward Sakeik?

Ward Sakeik, 34, immigrated to the United States in 2013 on a student visa and later applied for asylum, citing persecution and political threats in the Palestinian territories. He has since become a well-known figure within immigrant rights circles, organizing workshops, protests, and educational campaigns focused on Palestinian identity and anti-discrimination efforts.

His work with grassroots organizations and youth mentorship programs has earned him recognition within several community and academic institutions.

“He’s a peaceful, dedicated advocate who believes in nonviolence,” said Dr. Hanan Abu-Salameh, a colleague and former university advisor. “His detention is unjust and dangerous to the message of democratic freedom.”

Detention Conditions Raise Alarm

Advocates and family members say they are concerned about Sakeik’s physical and mental health. According to his legal team, he has been placed in solitary confinement at times and has experienced limited access to medical services and legal counsel.

Calls for accountability have intensified amid national scrutiny of ICE detention practices, with watchdog organizations continuing to document issues related to overcrowding, medical neglect, and prolonged detentions without clear legal basis.

“We’re calling on ICE to act with urgency, not bureaucracy,” said Zahra Al-Rashid, spokesperson for Detainee Justice Coalition. “Holding someone for a visa discrepancy, when all documents were filed and current, is outrageous.”

ICE Detentions Under Increased Scrutiny

The case arrives amid renewed debate over the role and function of ICE, particularly in handling asylum seekers and politically active immigrants. According to recent data, more than 25,000 individuals are currently being held in ICE custody, many of whom face lengthy legal processes while awaiting court decisions or appeals.

Critics argue the system prioritizes enforcement over justice, with many detentions later found to be unnecessary or unjustified. In recent months, several high-profile detentions involving activists and foreign nationals have drawn bipartisan concern.

What’s Next for Sakeik?

Sakeik’s legal team has filed a formal request for humanitarian release and is seeking a federal court injunction to prevent deportation. A preliminary immigration hearing is scheduled for next week, although delays are expected.

“Ward’s life and work are here,” attorney Rosa Martinez said. “He deserves to be free while his case proceeds.”

Until then, supporters plan to maintain pressure through public demonstrations, letter-writing campaigns, and legal petitions. Advocacy organizations are also coordinating with members of Congress to file an official inquiry into the circumstances of his detention.

Conclusion

As the legal process unfolds, Ward Sakeik’s detention has become a lightning rod in the broader conversation about immigration, political expression, and human rights in the United States. For many, his case highlights the growing tension between national security priorities and the civil liberties of immigrants and activists.

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as new information becomes available.