Indian Scholar Arrested in US Over Father-in-law's Alleged Hamas Link
 |
| Indian Scholar Arrested in US Over Father-in-law's Alleged Hamas Link |
The Arrest and Allegations
In March 2025, U.S. federal authorities detained Badar Khan Suri, an Indian national and postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown University. He faces allegations of spreading pro-Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claims Suri has close ties to a senior Hamas adviser, an organization designated as a terrorist group by the U.S.
Academic Background and Research
Suri, a Ph.D. graduate in peace and conflict studies from Jamia Millia Islamia, was conducting research on peacebuilding efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan at Georgetown’s Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding. He was arrested at his Arlington, Virginia residence and transferred to a Louisiana detention center.
Legal Defense and Family Ties
Suri’s legal team argues that the arrest is unjust, pointing to his valid visa status and clean record. His defense highlights that his wife, a U.S. citizen of Palestinian descent, is the daughter of Ahmed Yousef — a former deputy foreign minister in the Hamas-led Gaza government. They believe this familial connection may have influenced his arrest.
Court Intervention and Deportation Block
A federal judge in Alexandria, Virginia, has temporarily blocked Suri’s deportation, stating that the court must first rule on the case. The judge raised concerns about possible violations of Suri’s First Amendment rights and due process.
Georgetown University’s Response
Georgetown University expressed support for Suri, asserting they are unaware of any illegal activities on his part. The university reaffirmed its commitment to academic freedom and due process.
Broader Implications
Suri’s arrest has triggered a wider debate about academic freedom, free speech, and how national security measures intersect with civil liberties. His case continues to draw attention both in the U.S. and internationally.
