United States: Muslim leader arrested for his positions on Palestine?

The arrest of Salah Sarsour, an influential figure in Milwaukee’s Muslim community, provokes strong indignation in the United States. President of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee, this Palestinian-American, legal resident for more than 30 years, was arrested on March 30 by agents of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), without the authorities providing a clear reason. Very quickly, Muslim and civil rights organizations denounced a politically motivated arrest. In a joint letter, they affirm that Salah Sarsour is targeted because of his critical positions towards Israel and his commitment to the Palestinian cause.

For these organizations, this affair is part of a broader context of repression of pro-Palestinian voices in the United States, particularly since Donald Trump’s return to power. They denounce an exploitation of the judicial system aimed at silencing criticism of Israeli policy. On the ground, several local elected officials in Wisconsin also expressed their indignation, describing this arrest as “unjustifiable” and an attack on fundamental freedoms. They emphasize that no official explanation has been given, reinforcing suspicions of an arbitrary measure.

Still in detention, Salah Sarsour is now the subject of national mobilization. A support campaign has been launched to finance his defense, while his supporters demand his release and denounce a worrying trend against activists committed to Palestine.