Muslim Leader Salah Sarsour Speaks After 80 Days in ICE Detention 2026

Salah Sarsour, a prominent Muslim leader and president of Wisconsin's largest mosque, endured over 80 days in ICE detention—an ordeal he says recalled traumatic memories from Israeli military prisons in Palestine. The dehumanizing treatment he experienced highlights deep issues within U.S. immigration enforcement and its intersection with foreign policy.

Background: Who Is Salah Sarsour?

Sarsour, 53, is a U.S. permanent resident born in the West Bank. He moved to the United States in 1993 with his wife, built a successful business, and raised six U.S.-citizen children. He also leads a prominent mosque in Milwaukee, advocating for Palestinian rights. His detention on March 30, 2025, while visiting his elderly mother, shocked the local community.

The Detention and Its Aftermath

ICE agents surrounded Sarsour with at least 10 unmarked vehicles, arresting him without warning. He lost over 30 pounds during his detention. A federal judge later ruled that his detention likely retaliated against his advocacy, making it unlawful. Despite this, the Trump administration, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio's personal memo, continues to seek deportation, citing alleged undermining of U.S. foreign policy against antisemitism.

Key Details of the Case

Broader Implications for Palestinian Advocacy

Sarsour believes the administration targeted him to intimidate others. “They thought that by arresting me they would scare people fighting for justice for Palestinians, but it's the opposite,” he stated. His case underscores tensions between free speech, immigration law, and foreign policy priorities.

Key Takeaways

• ICE detention can be used as a tool to silence advocacy, especially for Palestinian rights.
• Federal courts may intervene if detention appears retaliatory.
• The case reflects ongoing debates about antisemitism and the First Amendment.
• Sarsour's family, including nine grandchildren, faces uncertainty.

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