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U.S. Deports Laith Alani After Orlando Detention Claim

8/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. officials detained 20-year-old Laith Alani at Orlando Airport, held him 24 hours, including nine-hour questioning and 14 hours in a cell, and deported him on a flight.
He alleged Customs and Border Protection officers profiled him as a Muslim, autistic, disabled person.
MP Anneliese Dodds referred the case to the UK Foreign Office, which offered help.
The Muslim Council of Britain said such detentions of Muslims at U.S. ports are routine.

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Story summary

U.S. officials detained 20-year-old Laith Alani at Orlando Airport, held him 24 hours, including nine-hour questioning and 14 hours in a cell, and deported him on a flight.
He alleged Customs and Border Protection officers profiled him as a Muslim, autistic, disabled person.
MP Anneliese Dodds referred the case to the UK Foreign Office, which offered help.
The Muslim Council of Britain said such detentions of Muslims at U.S. ports are routine.