THREAD: tiktok ban looms will refugee...

DRONE ATTACKS Shock Migrant Hotel: Police Rush to Find TikTok Culprit

01 May 2025 — Police in Staffordshire are racing to find out who used a drone to drop eggs and stink bombs on a Tamworth hotel full of migrants. The Holiday Inn Express, now home to asylum seekers from the Channel crisis, became the target of these bold attacks.

A viral TikTok video titled “stink bomb drone drops on asylum seekers” has already pulled in over 500,000 views. It even uses Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” as background music. Another clip shows eggs just missing three men standing in the parking lot.

The unknown person behind the TikTok account has gained more than 8,500 followers and 90,000 likes since starting up. Now, police are working hard to track down whoever is responsible for these shocking incidents.

TEXAS PANHANDLE On Edge: Immigration Uncertainty Sparks Anxiety

30 April 2025 — A Haitian couple in the Texas Panhandle is facing a wave of worry as immigration policies change. Kevenson Jean and his wife escaped violence in Haiti and found jobs at a local meatpacking plant. Now, they fear for their future after President Trump moved to end some legal immigration programs.

Jean says he isn’t taking jobs from Americans and enjoys living in Texas, working as a truck driver. His wife works two food service jobs while learning English, hoping for stability.

The couple followed all the rules but now feel singled out by new policy shifts. Their story shows how fear is spreading among immigrant families across rural Texas.

GOVERNMENT’S Case Against Khalil Under Fire: Is Justice Being Twisted?

15 April 2025 — The government’s case against Mahmoud Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident and former Columbia University student, is drawing criticism for using questionable sources. Khalil was arrested on campus and faces deportation due to his pro-Palestinian activism.

NBC News reviewed over 100 pages of documents from the federal government and Khalil’s legal team. The evidence suggests that the claims supporting his deportation are weak.

Khalil’s legal team submitted various documents, including his residency application and work experience records, to challenge the government’s assertions. A British Commonwealth spokesperson clarified that Khalil hasn’t worked for them in over two years.

FOREIGN STUDENTS as Pawns: How Hamas Manipulates US Campuses

02 April 2025 — Al-Ketbi warns that foreign students are being manipulated by terrorist groups like Hamas, backed by Iran. His comments follow the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian-born Columbia University graduate facing deportation for pro-Hamas activities. Khalil’s case highlights how extremist groups exploit U.S. immigration laws to infiltrate society.

Khalil is accused of being a Hamas sympathizer with anti-American views, linked to violent campus activities at Columbia University. Videos show him urging protesters to “destroy” and “explode the heads of Zionists.” Al-Ketbi warns this is part of a pattern where foreign students act as proxies for hostile regimes like Iran on American campuses.

Student groups such as Columbia University’s Apartheid Divest and Students for Justice in Palestine are cited as platforms spreading antisemitic or pro-terrorism discourse under humanitarian pretenses. Al-Ketbi emphasizes that these organizations often mask their true intentions behind human rights activism while promoting dangerous ideologies.

He argues that U.S. academic institutions are vulnerable due to inadequate vetting and misuse of free speech protections. Universities must prevent political or terrorist exploitation to safeguard against these threats, according to Al-Ketbi’s analysis in the Saudi outlet Elaph translated by MEMRI.

TUFTS Student’s SHOCKING Detention by Federal Agents Sparks Outrage

27 March 2025 — Federal agents detained Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University graduate student from Turkey, on Tuesday. She was heading to break her Ramadan fast when plainclothes agents approached and detained her. The incident was caught on video, showing what witnesses described as a chaotic scene that looked like a kidnapping.

Michael Mathis, a local resident, voiced concern over the agents’ methods. They used unmarked vehicles and covered their faces during the detention. This has raised questions about the transparency and appropriateness of their actions.

Ozturk had been active in pro-Palestinian activism at Tufts University. She co-authored an op-ed criticizing the university’s response to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Her attorney, Mahsa Khanbabai, reported being unable to contact her since she was taken into custody.

TRUMP DOJ’S Powerful Move: Deportation of Anti-Israel Activist Stuns Campus

25 March 2025 — The Department of Justice under President TRUMP is moving to deport Momodou TAAL, a Cornell student known for his anti-Israel protests. Court documents show that TAAL, who has dual citizenship in the UK and Gambia, is being asked to surrender to immigration authorities.

Eric Lee, TAAL’s attorney, slammed Trump’s actions as an “urgent threat of dictatorship.” He confirmed receiving notice from the DOJ about deportation proceedings and an invitation for TAAL to appear at ICE’s Syracuse office.

TAAL has been outspoken on social media since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, showing support for “resistance” against Israel and criticizing the U.S. Despite being on a student visa since 2022, he has called for "the end of the US empire.

A rally at Cornell University saw hundreds supporting TAAL last week, although he was not present. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), TAAL assured followers of his safety and readiness for court proceedings.

TRUMP DOJ’S Bold Move: Deportation of Anti-Israel Activist Ignites Debate

25 March 2025 — The Department of Justice under President TRUMP is seeking the deportation of Momodou TAAL, a Cornell University student and anti-Israel protester. Court documents show that TAAL, who holds dual citizenship in the UK and Gambia, has been asked to surrender to immigration authorities. This action follows his vocal support for resistance against Israel on social media.

Eric Lee, TAAL’s attorney, shared that he was informed via email about the government’s plan to start deportation proceedings. Lee criticized Trump’s actions as an “urgent threat of dictatorship.” He mentioned that ICE has invited TAAL to their Syracuse office for personal service of a Notice to Appear (NTA) and subsequent surrender.

TAAL’s activism grew after the October 7 Hamas attacks in 2023. Though he entered the U.S. on a student visa in 2022, he has openly expressed disdain for America and called for its downfall on platforms like X. His controversial statements have sparked both support and opposition within Cornell University’s community.

Hundreds rallied at Cornell University last week in solidarity with TAAL, though he did not attend himself. In a recent post on X, he assured followers of his safety and readiness to present his case in court soon. The situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies under TRUMP’s administration.

TRUMP Administration’s SHOCKING Move to Help Migrant Children

24 February 2025 — The Trump administration has unexpectedly reinstated legal aid for migrant children. This decision is a big change from its earlier stance, which took away important legal protections for these young individuals. The move has stirred mixed reactions among lawmakers and advocacy groups.

Advocacy groups and Democratic lawmakers had pushed the administration to provide legal help to migrant children, saying it’s vital for protecting their rights. Before this, the administration argued that offering legal aid would encourage more migration, which drew criticism from humanitarian organizations and legal experts. The renewed program aims to help unaccompanied children navigate the complex U.S. immigration system.

Trump’s announcement stressed a commitment to ensuring vulnerable kids are not left alone in the legal process. Key figures in his team highlighted the need to balance border security with humanitarian responsibility. While advocacy groups welcomed this as a positive step for children’s rights, some Republican lawmakers worried about potential impacts on border security and immigration control.

The issue of providing legal aid to migrant children remains heated within U.S. immigration policy debates, focusing on enforcement versus humanitarian assistance balance. This development highlights a renewed focus on migrant children’s rights amid ongoing discussions about border security and reform under Trump’s leadership.

FEDERAL Judge BLOCKS Trump’s Order: Trans Youth Care Sparks Fierce Debate

18 February 2025 — A federal judge has temporarily stopped former President Donald Trump’s order that restricted gender-affirming care for transgender youth. This decision keeps things the same while legal reviews are ongoing. Advocates argue the order limits access to important medical services for transgender minors.

Reactions are mixed. Supporters of transgender rights celebrate the ruling as a win for healthcare access. Opponents claim it undermines parental rights and healthcare providers’ decision-making abilities. This case is part of a bigger national debate on transgender rights and healthcare laws.

The Trump administration’s order faces many court challenges, showing public opinion divides over gender identity and healthcare issues. As states introduce conflicting laws, this ruling might affect similar cases across the country.

This development highlights tensions between state and federal rules on transgender healthcare, reflecting complex legal frameworks around gender identity in the U.S. The outcome could shape future legislation in different areas nationwide.

UK JUDGE’S BOLD Decision Stirs Controversy: Palestinian Family Gains Entry

13 February 2025 — A Palestinian family, displaced by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, applied to enter the U.K. under the Ukraine Family Scheme. Although not Ukrainian, they sought a compassionate interpretation of the law. The British Home Office initially rejected their application last May.

The family appealed to an immigration tribunal judge, who also rejected their case. However, an upper tribunal judge later upheld their appeal in January, citing the European Convention on Human Rights’ “right to family life.” This decision sparked criticism from many in the British political establishment.

Critics argue that allowing this exception could lead to a flood of similar cases from Gaza and accuse judges of overstepping by altering government policy without authority. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp emphasized that judges should not create new schemes based on broad interpretations of human rights law.

Judge Hugo Norton-Taylor defended his ruling by highlighting the severe risks faced by the family’s youngest children if they remained in Gaza. He dismissed concerns about opening floodgates, asserting that his decision was based solely on this case’s unique circumstances and facts.

SCOTUS DECISION Rocks TikTok: What It Means for America

18 January 2025 — The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the TikTok divest-or-ban law, dismissing claims of First Amendment violations. This decision requires ByteDance to sell its U.S. stake in TikTok by January 19 or face a nationwide ban. The ruling could change the social media landscape and has ignited debates on national security and data privacy concerns.

Legal experts are now exploring how this decision will affect freedom of expression for users. The ruling raises questions about balancing national security with constitutional rights, a topic that remains contentious among stakeholders.

Concerns are growing over how this could impact American users and businesses that rely on TikTok for communication and marketing purposes. As discussions continue, many eagerly await ByteDance’s next move in response to this landmark Supreme Court decision.

SUPREME COURT’S Bold Move: TikTok BAN to Stand in the USA

18 January 2025 — The Supreme Court has unanimously upheld a federal law banning TikTok unless its China-based parent company sells it. This decision will take effect on Sunday. TikTok’s CEO expressed gratitude towards President-elect Donald Trump for his efforts to keep the app available in the U.S.

ISRAEL’s BRAVE CEASEFIRE: Hostage DEAL with Hamas APPROVED

Israel’s Cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas, set to begin on Sunday. The agreement includes releasing Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, starting with three women hostages. Additionally, Egypt will facilitate the entry of 600 aid lorries per day during the ceasefire period.

CALIFORNIA RECOVERS: Evacuation ORDERS LIFTED After Battery Plant FIRE

Authorities have lifted evacuation orders following a fire at Vistra Power Plant in Moss Landing, California. The incident forced evacuations and road closures in Monterey County on Thursday, but some roads remain closed as safety assessments continue.

A gunman shot dead two judges in Tehran, raising immediate concerns about judicial safety in Iran’s capital city. The attack highlights vulnerabilities faced by judges involved in politically sensitive cases within the country’s judicial system

SUPREME COURT’S Bold Move to Protect America from China-Owned Apps

17 January 2025 — The U.S. SUPREME COURT has upheld a law allowing the government to ban TikTok unless it’s sold by its Chinese parent company. This decision addresses concerns over data privacy and national security linked to the popular app. Millions of American users are affected as lawmakers push for tougher rules on foreign-owned social media platforms.

The law emerged from fears that China could access sensitive personal data of American users through TikTok. Supporters see this ruling as a win for privacy and security, while critics worry about job losses and restricted free speech. The decision aligns with increased scrutiny on foreign tech companies in the U.S.

TikTok has been urged to consider selling or restructuring to ease these concerns, which could impact other tech firms with foreign connections. This ruling may lead to big changes in how tech companies are owned and operate under U.S. laws, sparking talks about future compliance strategies within the industry.

CHINA’S SHOCKING TikTok Move: Will Musk Take Over?

15 January 2025 — Chinese officials are thinking about selling TikTok’s US operations to Elon Musk. This idea comes as the app faces a possible ban in the United States. The talks highlight ongoing worries about national security risks linked to TikTok, owned by ByteDance.

The potential sale of TikTok’s US operations shows the tension between the United States and China over data privacy issues. Regulatory scrutiny is growing, with technology and foreign investments at the heart of these global challenges.

Elon Musk’s involvement could change how TikTok operates in America if a sale happens. This development marks an important moment in US-China relations regarding technology and data privacy concerns.

TALIBAN RULE Destroys Afghanistan: Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

16 August 2024 — Life in Afghanistan has worsened under Taliban rule over the past three years. The humanitarian crisis is escalating, and women’s rights have vanished. Kabul remains isolated from the international community.

A quarter of Afghans face “acute” food insecurity, and more than half need humanitarian aid. Nearly 70% of the population lacks reliable access to basic resources like food, water, housing, or health care, according to the UNDP.

The Taliban’s takeover in August 2021 led to an economic collapse as international funding was cut off. Their extremist policies and bans on women have worsened the economic crisis further.

Three years after U.S.-led troops withdrew from Afghanistan, many question if life is now worse than before 9/11 and the subsequent invasion. “If it’s not worse, it’s heading in that direction quickly,” says Michael Rubin of the American Enterprise Institute.

TIKTOK On The BRINK: Biden’s Bold Move to Ban or Force Sale of Chinese App

02 May 2024 — TikTok and Universal Music Group have just renewed their partnership. This deal brings UMG’s music back to TikTok after a short break. The agreement includes better promotion strategies and new AI protections. Universal CEO Lucian Grainge said the deal will help artists and creators on the platform.

President Joe Biden has signed a new law that gives TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, nine months to sell the app or face a ban in the U.S. This decision is due to worries from both political sides about national security and protecting American youth from foreign influence.

TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, announced plans to fight this law in U.S courts, claiming it supports their constitutional rights. Yet, ByteDance would rather close TikTok in the U.S than sell it if they lose their legal battle.

This conflict shows the ongoing struggle between TikTok’s business goals and America’s national security needs. It points out big worries about data privacy and foreign influence in American digital spaces by China’s tech sector.

RWANDA DEPORTATION Plan Sparks Outrage

01 May 2024 — A migrant, previously denied asylum, has voluntarily arrived in Rwanda. Rwandan officials confirmed his arrival, which sets the stage for the expected deportation of additional migrants under a new U.K. policy. This individual was not forced out but chose Rwanda on his own accord.

The U.K. government is now preparing to deport the first batch of migrants to Rwanda after recent legislative approval. The newly enacted Safety of Rwanda Bill aims to overcome previous legal hurdles by ensuring migrant safety in Rwanda through an updated treaty agreement.

While Rwandan authorities assert their readiness to assess and support incoming individuals based on their asylum needs or relocation preferences, critics label the deportation strategy as both inhumane and unlawful.

U.K.'s business and trade secretary Kemi Badenoch cited this voluntary migration as proof that Rwanda can be a secure haven for deportees, amidst heated discussions about the moral aspects of these policies.

US Squatting Laws EXPLOITED: Migrant ‘Influencer’ PUSHES Illegal Home Seizures

05 April 2024 — Squatting laws in the United States are increasingly manipulated by fraudsters unlawfully occupying empty homes. This problem is projected to escalate due to the current immigration crisis, as migrants gain knowledge of these laws and exploit them.

Leonel Moreno, a Venezuelan national apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week, had been urging his TikTok followers, numbering in the millions, to commandeer vacant U.S. homes. Before his arrest, Moreno was raking in $1,000 per day as an influencer while also benefiting from $350 monthly government subsidies.

The regulations on squatters vary across states and cities with New York City being among those with the most lax rules. These laws have recently resulted in significant repercussions including a Queens homeowner’s arrest for attempting to remove squatters from her property — a clear sign that these laws continue to be exploited even after Moreno’s TikTok account has been deactivated.

Recent incidents involving deceptive squatters in New York City and Long Island underscore the potential for abuse of these laws. Last month saw a woman tragically killed by squatters occupying her mother’s apartment while another instance involved two individuals unlawfully residing in an abandoned Long Island home after forging the deceased owner’s signature on a lease.

TIKTOK’S SHADOW BAN: Suppressing Content Critical of Chinese Communist Party?

28 December 2023 — A recent investigation by Rutgers University’s Network Contagion Research Institute has unveiled unsettling details about TikTok’s content guidelines. The popular social media platform, notorious for its data collection and sharing with its parent company in China, now stands accused of stifling content that criticizes the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The research team found a stark contrast in the number of posts featuring contentious hashtags such as China’s conflict with India over Kashmir, the Tiananmen Square massacre, and the Uyghur genocide on TikTok compared to other platforms like Instagram. For instance, there were 206 Instagram posts tagged #HongKongProtests for every single one on TikTok. Similar ratios were observed for #StandWithKashmir, #FreeUyghurs, and #DalaiLama.

The report suggests that there is a high likelihood that TikTok either boosts or suppresses content depending on how it aligns with the Chinese government’s interests. This is worrisome since many Generation Z users rely on TikTok as their primary news source — interestingly enough, this is also the only generation reported not to take pride in being American.

TikTok cannot deny these findings as they mirror the methodology used by them last month to prove their platform was not biased against Israel. This revelation raises serious questions about