Tufts Student Arrested by ICE, Held in Louisiana Over Alleged Hamas Ties

A graduate student from Tufts University,; Rumeysa Ozturk, on a visa originally from Turkey, was arrested by federal agents this week and is now in detention in Louisiana according to University President Sunil Kumar. This incident has raised concerns within the Tufts community and beyond.

Concerns Raised by University President

The President of Tufts University, Sunil Kumar, expressed the university's dismay at the distressing situation affecting both the student and the wider community. Particularly, he emphasized the impact on international students, staff, and faculty who may be feeling vulnerable or unsettled by this event, especially those observing Ramadan.

Legal Team's Response and Developments

The legal team representing Ozturk stated that no charges have been filed against her and they demand her release. Despite her valid F-1 visa status, she has been detained with no communication. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani granted a habeas petition to prevent her removal from the District of Massachusetts. The judge's decision reflects an understanding of the complexities involved in Ozturk's case, providing a temporary reprieve while the legal proceedings unfold.

University's Stance and Ongoing Communication

Tufts University is actively communicating with local, state, and federal officials to advocate for Ozturk's rights and ensure she has the opportunity to avail herself of her due process rights. The university is mobilizing resources to support the community and is closely monitoring the situation as it develops.

The legal landscape surrounding Ozturk's case is influenced by Executive Order 13899, which aims to cancel the student visas of Hamas sympathizers on college campuses. This executive order reflects the shifting policy landscape and its potential impact on international students, particularly those with views and affiliations that may be deemed controversial.

Cost of Attendance and Financial Support

Tuf ts University's estimated cost of attendance before financial aid ranges from $80,000 to $90,000 and the university received substantial funds from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) amounting to $115.2 million as of fiscal year 2025, which underscores the significant financial investment made by the institution to support its academic and research endeavors.