Court rules: Administration can deport Islamist activist convicted of terrorism

A Wisconsin court ruled that the Trump administration can deport Salah Sarsour, president of the state's largest mosque, due to his terrorist past. Sarsour was convicted in 1985 for throwing Molotov cocktails at IDF soldiers and for weapons possession. His defense has announced an appeal.

A Wisconsin court ruled that the Trump administration can deport Salah Sarsour, president of the state's largest mosque, due to his security record. Sarsour, a U.S. permanent resident for about 30 years, was convicted in Israel in 1988 for throwing Molotov cocktails at IDF forces during the First Intifada, and was imprisoned again in 1995 for attempted weapons possession. Judge Jamie Slinnardi ruled that his past poses a threat to U.S. national security and foreign policy, rejecting defense claims that his confessions were extracted under torture. Federal allegations also arose that Sarsour was linked to fundraising for the "Holy Land Foundation," proven to have funneled money to Hamas. In Israel, it is noted that Sarsour is a member of the AMP (Americans for Palestine) organization and hosted a 2018 campaign event for Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. The defense announced an appeal within 30 days. Sarsour stated that returning to the West Bank would mean the end of his life. The judge also indicated Jordan as a possible deportation destination.