Trump cannot deport students for criticizing Israel, judge rules

In a ruling on Friday, federal judge Noël Wise in California affirmed that the U.S. government's efforts to deport noncitizens involved in silencing criticism of Israel's war in Gaza were unconstitutional. The decision supports the student newspaper at Stanford University, claiming that international students were deterred from speaking out due to deportation threats.

Wise emphasized that the First Amendment and the freedom of speech are "foundational to America's enduring democracy." She identified flaws in the Trump administration's rules, specifically regarding the vagueness and potential for retaliation against those engaging in speech opposing Israel. Wise also cited retaliation in March 2025 by U.S. immigration authorities against individuals who had expressed support for Palestinians and criticized Israel's actions.

The judge highlighted the potential for targets to include anyone exercising their free speech in expressing opinions the government disagrees with. She warned that this trend is harmful to the Constitution and its recognition of the right to speak freely. Fitzpatrick, an attorney with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, celebrated the ruling, stating that free speech in America belongs not just to those whose views align with the government's, but to all.