Palestinian Fights U.S. Deportation, Citing Settler Violence Fears

A 44-year-old Palestinian man, Tariq Zakarnah, is seeking to prevent his deportation from the United States to the West Bank, also referred to as Judea and Samaria, by filing a lawsuit. Zakarnah, who has lived in the U.S. for 13 years, faces deportation after his marriage to a U.S. citizen was invalidated by a local court over two years ago. His deportation is scheduled for August 9, 2026.

U.S. immigration authorities have stated that Zakarnah will not be handed over to Israeli custody, as they can deport him directly to the West Bank. However, Zakarnah's lawyers argue in court that upon arrival, he would be under the control of Israeli military forces and could face mistreatment and harassment from settlers. The defense is pressing for the deportation order to be overturned on the grounds of his personal safety.

Zakarnah's legal team contends that his fear of violence from settlers in the West Bank is a valid concern that should prevent his deportation. They are urging the court to consider these safety implications before proceeding with the removal order.