Dr. Rasha Alawieh, a distinguished kidney transplant specialist and professor at Brown University's medical school, faced unexpected deportation from the United States despite her legal status on an H-1B visa. Dr. Alawieh's removal occurred after she returned from visiting relatives in Lebanon last month. Her deportation took place despite a court order blocking her expulsion, highlighting growing concerns over recent U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration.
The incident involving Dr. Alawieh is part of a broader trend of deportations that have raised alarm among international communities. On Sunday, the Trump administration deported hundreds of Venezuelan nationals from the United States to a prison in El Salvador, defying a federal judge's ruling against the use of the Alien Enemies Act. Some planes carrying Venezuelans were ordered to return to the United States, although President Trump described those deported as "bad people."
The situation has prompted Brown University to issue advisories to its foreign students, urging caution ahead of spring break travel. The university advised students to carefully consider the risks associated with traveling to the United States, given the current climate. The deportation of Dr. Alawieh and similar actions have been perceived as part of a broader assault on the rights of foreign students and workers, as well as an attack on U.S. democracy itself.
In addition to these concerns, recent statistics indicate a decline in international travel to the United States. Travel is expected to drop by at least 5% this year, with travel from China experiencing an 11% decrease. In February alone, the number of Canadians returning by car from visits to the United States fell by 23%. These figures reflect a growing apprehension about visiting or living in the United States amid the current political and social environment.
The situation has sparked widespread debate about the impact of these policies on international relations and the global perception of the United States. Critics argue that such measures undermine the nation's reputation as a welcoming and inclusive destination for international talent and collaboration.