Some good news for those questioning the pulse of due process today! Rümeysa Öztürk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, found herself in the crosshairs of ICE after co-authoring an opinion piece critically examining policy decisions. This act of free speech, squarely protected by the First Amendment, unexpectedly led to her being dubbed a terrorist and taken into custody in broad daylight—a stark and chilling misuse of power.

Fortunately, Öztürk's ordeal drew considerable attention and support, helping to thwart initial attempts to deport her swiftly. After more than six weeks in detention, the courts permitted her return home, yet the legal battles persisted as the administration pressed on zealously for a win. However, recent developments have finally tilted in her favor.

An immigration judge has now terminated the removal proceedings against Öztürk, as revealed by her attorneys and supported by recently unsealed court documents. These documents confirmed the lack of evidence linking her to any terrorist activities. The real motive behind her visa revocation and subsequent arrest was her critical op-ed on Israel's policies.

This ruling is a significant victory for free speech and highlights the misuse of anti-terrorism accusations to sidestep due process—an alarming strategy that has been in play since the Bush Jr. administration. Sadly, Öztürk's case is not isolated, raising concerns about how many others could be suffering silently, lacking adequate resources to fight similar injustices.

The rule of law appears battered but is still holding, evidenced by this latest judicial decision. This outcome not only reaffirms the importance of protecting political speech but also sends a crucial message about the misuse of power under the guise of national security.

For further details on this case, you can follow updates and read more on CNN’s coverage of the termination of Rümeysa Öztürk’s immigration detention.