Tuscaloosa, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Tuscaloosa held a protest to demand the release of Alireza Doroudi, a University of Alabama doctoral student detained by ICE. The protest followed a bond hearing that denied Doroudi’s release, citing him as a flight risk and national security concern without evidence. Supporters rallied for his release and better support for international students, raising concerns about ongoing immigration policies. Doroudi’s fiancée criticized the University’s muted response amidst the growing tensions within the community regarding immigration enforcement.
Tuscaloosa Residents Protest for Release of Alireza Doroudi, Iranian Doctoral Student Detained by ICE
Tuscaloosa residents gathered in a show of solidarity for Alireza Doroudi, a University of Alabama doctoral student from Iran who was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest occurred outside the Richard Shelby Federal Building and Courthouse in Tuscaloosa on Monday, following a bond hearing that denied Doroudi’s release.
Doroudi was taken into custody by ICE agents early on March 25, 2023, at his apartment in Tuscaloosa. He is currently housed in the Jena/LaSalle Detention Facility in Louisiana after being moved from the Pickens County Jail. At a bond hearing, presided over by Judge Maithe González, Doroudi’s request for bond was denied. The judge ruled that Doroudi was a flight risk and failed to prove he was not a threat to national security. The Department of Homeland Security has labeled Doroudi a “national security concern,” although specific evidence supporting this claim has not been disclosed.
David Rozas, Doroudi’s attorney, expressed disbelief over the bond ruling, indicating that the government has not provided substantial evidence indicating that Doroudi poses a national security threat. Rozas stated that expecting someone to prove they are not a risk is an impossible burden, asserting that Doroudi does not present a flight risk and intends to appeal the bond decision within the next 30 days.
During the hearing, it was revealed that Doroudi’s student visa has been revoked. However, Rozas argued that Doroudi remains in legal status as an active enrolled student in his graduate program. The ongoing legal struggles have heightened community concerns regarding the treatment of international students and the current immigration policies.
After the bond hearing, over 100 demonstrators, including University of Alabama students and local residents, convened to demand Doroudi’s release and to advocate for stronger support for international students at their university. Protesters voiced their concerns and chanted slogans like “Free Doroudi. No more ICE!” Speakers at the event emphasized the perceived cruelty and abuse of power reflected in Doroudi’s detention, calling for governmental assistance rather than punitive actions regarding visa status.
Sama Bajgani, Doroudi’s fiancée, spoke about the emotional strain that the situation has placed on both of their lives. Bajgani took issue with the University of Alabama’s lack of response regarding Doroudi’s detention while similar celebrations were being held on campus. She criticized the current immigration policies under the Trump administration and their repercussions on the local community, noting that the community’s enthusiasm for upcoming political events, including a visit from Trump, contrasts sharply with the silence surrounding Doroudi’s plight.
University officials have acknowledged Doroudi’s situation but have yet to offer further comments or indicate support for international students facing similar challenges. Tensions continue to rise as the Tuscaloosa community rallies around Doroudi in hopes of drawing attention to his case and the broader implications of immigration enforcement policies in the United States.
FAQ
Who is Alireza Doroudi and why was he detained?
Alireza Doroudi is a doctoral student at the University of Alabama originally from Iran. He was detained by ICE on March 25, 2023, due to questions surrounding his immigration status.
What were the outcomes of the bond hearing?
During the bond hearing, Judge Maithe González denied Doroudi bond, labeling him a flight risk and indicating a national security concern, although no evidence was provided to substantiate this claim.
What actions are the community taking in response to his detention?
Over 100 residents protested outside the Richard Shelby Federal Building and Courthouse in Tuscaloosa, demanding Doroudi’s release and urging the University of Alabama to support international students more actively.
What are the implications of Doroudi’s case on other international students?
Doroudi’s case highlights broader concerns about current immigration policies and the treatment of international students in the U.S., raising fears of similar actions against others in the community.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Alireza Doroudi |
| Occupation | Doctoral Student |
| Detainment Date | March 25, 2023 |
| Current Facility | Jena/LaSalle Detention Facility, Louisiana |
| Bond Hearing Outcome | Denied |
| Community Response | Protests and demonstrations |
| Key Concerns | National security claims, immigration policies, support for international students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Palestinian Activist Sues Trump Administration for $20 Million
Tensions Rise as Ten Suspects Charged in ICE Detention Center Attack
Trump Opens ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Immigration Facility Amid Controversy
Additional Resources
- Tuscaloosa Thread
- Wikipedia: Immigration Statistics
- WVTM 13
- Encyclopedia Britannica: ICE Immigration
- ABC 33/40
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