University Computer Programmer Deported as Terror Threat

(Seattle, Washington) Yesterday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced the deportation to Saudi Arabia of Majid Al-Massari, a computer programmer at the University of Washington Nursing School.

The government claims that al-Massari is a national security threat because of ties to his father, Muhammed al-Massari, an outspoken critic of the House of Saud, the Saudi royal family.

Al-Massari's father founded the Committee for the Defense of Legitimate Rights, which federal agents consider a front group for al-Qaida. Mohammed al-Massari won asylum in Britain, where he is able to continue his criticism of Saudi Arabia and its ties to the United States.

Immigration and Customs officials say Majid al-Massari solicited funds and helped administer the committee's Web site.

Al-Massari has been in legal trouble with the government since July 2004 when he was arrested for overstaying his visa. He's also been convicted of a felony drug charge. Defense lawyer Damon Shadid fears that the Saudis may detain and torture Al-Massari because of his father's activities in support of Osama bin Laden.