Tuscaloosa, Alabama, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The detention of Iranian PhD student Alireza Doroudi by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has raised alarms about the treatment of international students in the U.S. Doroudi, studying mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama, was taken into custody without charges. Concerns have been voiced over his classification as a national security threat. The incident highlights ongoing discussions about immigration policy and the rights of foreign students.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Iranian PhD student Alireza Doroudi was taken from his home by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) early on March 28, sparking concerns about the treatment of international students in the United States. Doroudi, who is studying mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama, has not been charged with any crime following his detention, and his legal situation remains unclear.
According to his attorney, David Rozas, Doroudi has always been committed to his studies, driven by a desire to achieve the “American dream” of becoming a researcher and professor. Notably, he has not participated in any anti-government protests, nor has he made any public statements or writings regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, which have been areas of scrutiny in other cases involving international students.
Amid growing concern, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) classified Doroudi as presenting “significant national security concerns,” a statement that was met with demand for clarification, as no specific details were provided to support this claim. The University of Alabama has expressed its unease about the incident, highlighting the value of international students within their academic community. However, Doroudi’s visa was reportedly revoked six months after his arrival in the U.S., despite his compliance with the law. He initially entered the U.S. on an F-1 student visa issued in January 2023.
Fellow students and various campus organizations have reacted with shock and anxiety regarding Doroudi’s detention, viewing it as an alarming example of ICE’s actions that disproportionately target international scholars. Similar situations have arisen in the past, including the cases of Rumeysa Ozturk of Tufts University and Mahmoud Khalil from Columbia University, which have intensified discussions surrounding civil rights and due process for international students.
In a reflection of the sentiment on campus, the University of Alabama College Democrats condemned the situation as a “cold, vicious dagger” against the international community, raising questions about the potential political motivations behind ICE’s actions. These events contribute to ongoing conversations about immigration policy and the rights of foreign nationals studying in the U.S.
As of the latest updates, Doroudi has made the voluntary decision to return to Iran rather than face prolonged detention. Expressing his love for the U.S., he noted feelings of being unwanted, guiding his choice to leave the country. His legal team expressed disappointment in the absence of tangible evidence to validate the national security claims made against him, emphasizing the lack of merit in the charges.
Background Context
The detention of Alireza Doroudi is set against a backdrop of increasing apprehension regarding the treatment of international students within the U.S. The struggles faced by international scholars have raised alarms regarding civil liberties and the implications of immigration enforcement actions. With a growing number of cases coming to light, there is a rising call for reforms in immigration policy to protect the rights of those pursuing education abroad.
Key Statistics
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Student’s Name | Alireza Doroudi |
| Field of Study | Mechanical Engineering |
| University | University of Alabama |
| Visa Type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Date of Detention | March 28, 2023 |
| Current Status | Voluntarily Returned to Iran |
FAQ
Who is Alireza Doroudi?
Alireza Doroudi is an Iranian PhD student studying mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama.
Why was Doroudi detained?
Doroudi was detained by ICE due to alleged national security concerns, although details regarding these claims have not been disclosed.
What has the University of Alabama said about his detainment?
The University has expressed concern for Doroudi’s situation and the impact on international students within their community.
What are the implications of this case for other international students?
This case has raised fears among international students regarding immigration enforcement practices and their potential impact on their civil liberties.
What is the current status of Doroudi?
As of now, Alireza Doroudi has chosen to return to Iran to avoid ongoing detention.
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Additional Resources
- Alabama Reflector: Attorney for University of Alabama Student Detained by ICE Chooses to Return to Iran
- NBC News: University of Alabama Doctoral Student Detained by ICE
- WBRC: UA Doctoral Student Voluntarily Returns to Iran After Being Detained by ICE
- The Crimson White: UA Student Reportedly Detained by ICE
- Wikipedia: ICE Detentions in the United States
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