US human rights activist Osama Abuirshaid raised concerns after being placed on a secret FBI watchlist, attributing it to his pro-Palestinian activism. He highlighted the delicate balance between civil liberties and national security measures in the US.
Abuirshaid faced travel challenges like not being able to check in online or use self-service kiosks due to his listing, undergoing extensive security checks instead. He linked his inclusion on the list to his advocacy for Palestine, viewing it as an attempt to silence his activism.
In response, Abuirshaid initiated legal action with CAIR Los Angeles to challenge his listing. CAIR’s Legal Director, Amr Shabaik, termed the FBI’s actions as unlawful, citing multiple cases of surveillance on pro-Palestinian supporters.
The FBI’s watchlist, exposed in 2019, has raised concerns for targeting American Muslims, leading to severe consequences like closed bank accounts and intrusive questioning during travel. The controversy underscores the need to address the implications of such surveillance measures on civil rights.