U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement plans to deport Marwan Marouf, a 54-year-old Jordanian man who leads public relations and fundraising for the Muslim American Society in Dallas. Officials cite his past donations to a group linked to Hamas and his illegal stay in the country after his visa expired in 2011.
Background on Marwan Marouf
Marwan Marouf came to the United States more than 30 years ago as an international student. He built a life in North Texas, where he married, raised a family, and worked in community roles.
Over the years, Marouf became a key figure in the Dallas Muslim community. He took on leadership positions, including his current role at the Muslim American Society of Dallas-Fort Worth.
His work focused on public relations and fundraising. Community members praise him for efforts during crises like winter storms and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Marouf applied multiple times for permanent residency through his employer. Each time, federal reviews delayed or denied his requests due to questions about his affiliations.
Reasons for Deportation
ICE arrested Marouf in September 2025. The agency charges him with staying in the U.S. without valid documents after his non-immigrant visa ended on February 12, 2011.
A major issue involves donations he made over 20 years ago to the Holy Land Foundation. This group was convicted in 2008 of funneling money to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
Federal officials say Marouf provided material support to terrorism through these funds. His lawyers argue the donations were for charity and deny any terror links.
An immigration judge ruled against Marouf in November 2025. The decision denied his request for voluntary departure and ordered deportation to Jordan.
Here is a timeline of key events in Marouf’s case:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Over 30 years ago | Marouf enters U.S. as international student |
| June 5, 2009 | Arrives in Dallas on non-immigrant visa |
| February 12, 2011 | Visa expires; Marouf stays in U.S. |
| 2008 | Holy Land Foundation convicted of Hamas ties |
| September 2025 | ICE detains Marouf |
| November 2025 | Judge orders deportation |
Community Reactions and Impact
The Dallas Muslim community feels shocked by Marouf’s detention. Many see him as a dedicated leader who helped during tough times.
Supporters highlight his role in disaster relief. He organized meal deliveries to hospitals and shelters during storms and the pandemic.
Marouf also founded a large Boy Scout troop in Dallas. He led campaigns against drug abuse and supported youth programs.
On social media, opinions split. Some posts celebrate the deportation as a win against terror networks.
Others defend Marouf as a model citizen. They point to his long-term contributions and question the fairness of old allegations.
Local groups rally for his release. Petitions and statements call for humane treatment and review of his case.
Ties to Broader Organizations
Marouf’s case connects to larger concerns about groups like the Muslim American Society. Federal probes link MAS to the Muslim Brotherhood in some reports.
The Holy Land Foundation trial in 2008 exposed networks funding Hamas. Marouf’s family ties to convicted individuals add scrutiny.
His brother-in-law was among those convicted in the case. This family link fueled ongoing federal interest in Marouf’s activities.
Critics argue such affiliations pose risks. Supporters say the claims are outdated and unfairly target Muslim charities.
Recent events heighten tensions. In 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott designated some groups as foreign terrorist organizations, echoing national security pushes.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Marouf’s legal team fights the deportation. They work with the Muslim Legal Fund of America to appeal the judge’s ruling.
The team argues Marouf lived openly in the U.S. for decades without issues. They claim the terror support charges lack strong evidence.
ICE holds Marouf in detention. Officials prepare for his removal to Jordan in the coming weeks.
Possible appeals could delay the process. Immigration courts often see backlogs, but high-profile cases move faster.
Experts note similar cases involve long battles. Outcomes depend on evidence of intent and current laws.
Key factors in Marouf’s defense include:
- His community service record
- Lack of criminal convictions
- Family ties in the U.S.
- Claims of charitable intent for donations
Broader Implications for Immigration
This deportation highlights stricter enforcement under current policies. ICE focuses on cases with security concerns amid rising immigration debates.
In 2025, deportations rose by 15 percent compared to the previous year, per federal data. Many involve overstays or denied applications.
The case raises questions about vetting charitable donations. Muslim communities worry about unfair targeting based on old affiliations.
It also ties into national discussions on terrorism and immigration. Recent attacks and global events push for tougher screenings.
Analysts predict more such actions. They advise immigrants to document activities and seek legal advice early.
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