1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

The actions taken by US immigration officials in arresting and detaining pro-Palestinian students like Rumeysa Ozturk and Mahmoud Khalil are deeply concerning. Revoking visas and pursuing deportation for exercising free speech rights on campus is a severe overreach of government power. This crackdown undermines fundamental democratic principles and academic freedom. Threatening universities with funding cuts for failing to suppress constitutionally protected speech is unacceptable in a free society. The allegations of antisemitism appear to be politically motivated attempts to silence criticism of Israeli policies. I urge you to condemn these actions, which evoke tactics seen in authoritarian regimes rather than a nation built on civil liberties. Robust debate on complex issues should be encouraged, not shut down through intimidation and retaliatory measures against students lawfully residing in the country. I request that you take immediate steps to ensure the rights of these students are protected and they are released from unjust detention.