A North Texas Woman Faces Potential Deportation Amid ICE Custody
In a troubling story unfolding in North Texas, 22-year-old Ward Sakeik, a photographer of Palestinian descent, is currently detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and could face deportation to an undisclosed location very soon. Her husband, Taahir Shaikh, shared the alarming news with reporters on Thursday, shedding light on their dire situation.
A Honeymoon Interrupted
Sakeik and Shaikh’s ordeal began while returning from their honeymoon in the U.S. Virgin Islands. As they arrived at Miami International Airport, ICE officials questioned the couple about their legal statuses and requested proof that Sakeik was in compliance with immigration laws. Although she had a scheduled check-in with ICE in July, the couple was assured by officials that everything was in order, and Sakeik would be fine upon their return to Dallas.
However, what should have been a joyous return turned into a nightmare. Shaikh recalled, “They said, ‘Just show us this and she’ll be released when she returns to Dallas.’ That didn’t happen.” Instead, both were compelled to board separate flights back to Texas under threatening circumstances, leaving Shaikh unable to communicate with his wife during the flight.
Time in Detention
Since February, Sakeik has been confined mainly at the El Valle Detention Center, approximately an hour from McAllen, Texas, and recently moved to Prairieland Detention Center, located southwest of Dallas. During this time, Shaikh has experienced lengthy periods without updated information; he mentioned he has not been able to speak to Sakeik for two days, heightening the couple’s anxiety.
A Complicated Background
Sakeik’s legal situation is deeply complex. Originally born in Saudi Arabia to a refugee family, she arrived in the United States at eight years old on a visitor’s visa. Due to her family’s asylum efforts, she has been under a removal order since 2011 and is unable to obtain citizenship in Saudi Arabia, rendering her stateless. The couple married just before their honeymoon in January, hoping to solidify Sakeik’s status in the country.
While the couple believed they could travel within the U.S. after presenting Sakeik’s ICE check-in documents, the enforcement of immigration laws has left them reeling. Shaikh emphasized that despite having an emotional connection to her ancestral roots, Sakeik made it a priority to adhere to all regulations.
Growing Concern and Activism
The situation has sparked outrage among immigrant advocacy groups and the community. Mustafaa Carroll, with the North Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, has been vocal in calling for ICE to halt Sakeik’s deportation and reveal her whereabouts. Carroll described the impending deportation as “inhumane and shameful,” particularly for someone who has followed all stipulated guidelines.
This case highlights broader concerns around immigration enforcement, especially amidst escalating tensions related to the conflict in Gaza. Activists have raised alarms over the detention of individuals who engage in pro-Palestinian activism, although Shaikh insists that Sakeik has not made public statements concerning the conflict.
Legal and Community Responses
Local advocacy efforts continue to unfold as community members rally for Sakeik’s cause. The case exemplifies the challenges many face in navigating the U.S. immigration system—particularly those who follow the rules yet find themselves caught up in legal complications. KERA News has reached out to ICE for updates on Sakeik’s current situation and the timing of her potential deportation, but responses remain pending.
As protests against ICE operations increase nationwide, particularly in response to the current political climate, Sakeik’s case serves as a poignant reminder of the human impact of immigration policies. The urgency of her situation has captured the attention of many, and calls for justice and compassion echo throughout the community.
