Full Breakdown
Federal Judge Orders Release of Hayam El Gamal and Children from Immigration Detention
4/24/2026, 1:59:37 AM
Core Event: Release of El Gamal Family
On Thursday, a federal judge ordered the release of Hayam El Gamal and her five children from immigration detention in Dilley, Texas, where they had been held for over 10 months. This ruling marks the longest detention period for any family under the Trump administration's mass deportation policies. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery's decision followed a recommendation from a federal magistrate for their release under conditions ensuring their participation in future removal proceedings.
Background & Context: Family's Detention Circumstances
The El Gamal family has been detained since June 2022, following the arrest of Hayam's ex-husband, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, who faces multiple charges related to a fatal antisemitic firebombing in Boulder, Colorado. The attack, which occurred during a rally for the release of Israeli hostages, resulted in at least 14 injuries and one death. Soliman has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Hayam El Gamal has publicly condemned the attack and stated that her family was unaware of his alleged plans.
Official Statements & Responses
El Gamal's attorney, Eric Lee, expressed relief at the ruling, stating, “We won,” as he exited the courtroom. He noted that while the family would be required to wear ankle monitors, they would finally be able to return home. In contrast, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson criticized the judge's decision, asserting that the release of "this terrorist’s family" posed a national security threat. The DHS has previously attempted to expedite the family's deportation, claiming they had no right to remain in the U.S.
Criticism & Opposition: Conditions in Detention
The El Gamal family has been vocal about their experiences in detention, highlighting inadequate accommodations for their religious practices and poor living conditions. In a letter to U.S. senators, Hayam El Gamal described the lack of halal food and insufficient privacy for women. The DHS has dismissed these allegations as "mainstream media lies," asserting that detainees receive adequate medical care, including access to pediatric services.
What's Next: Monitoring and Future Proceedings
Following the ruling, the family will be monitored with ankle bracelets as they navigate the immigration process. The court's decision to release them comes after previous attempts to secure their freedom were thwarted by the administration's legal maneuvers. The family’s ongoing situation reflects broader issues within the U.S. immigration system, particularly concerning the treatment of families in detention.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We won,” — Eric Lee, Attorney for Hayam El Gamal
- “children should not be in jail.” — Christopher Godshall-Bennett, Attorney for Habiba Soliman
- “It's really heartening there's still a sliver of justice,” — Christopher Godshall-Bennett, Attorney for Habiba Soliman
- “the judge wants to release this terrorist’s family onto American streets. Under President Trump, DHS will continue to fight for the removal of those who have no right to be in our country, especially national security threats.” — DHS Spokesperson
The release of Hayam El Gamal and her children underscores the complexities and challenges surrounding immigration detention policies in the United States, particularly in cases involving national security concerns and family welfare.
