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Thursday, March 28, 2024 | Back issues
Courthouse News Service Courthouse News Service

Jordanian Failed to Prove He Faced Honor Killing

(CN) - A Jordanian man was properly denied asylum by the Board of Immigration Appeals because he failed to prove he could become a victim of an honor killing, the 6th Circuit ruled.

Hamdi Al Khalili and his wife, Deena, allegedly fled Jordan after her family showed disapproval of the marriage by beating her and making false accusations against her husband.

They fled to the United States but got a divorce one year later, with Deena returning to Jordan.

Khalili overstayed his visa and faced removal. He appealed, claiming religious persecution and membership in a protected social group.

The immigration judge denied his request for asylum, ruling that he was not in danger of an honor killing for disgracing the family, because he did not show that the cultural practice was extended to men.

The Board of Immigration Appeals affirmed the decision, ruling that Khalili did not show that the Jordanian government would not protect him, because it does prosecute those who are accused of honor killings.

Judge Cole of the Cincinnati-based federal appeals court also upheld the decision.

"While Khalili does present evidence of honor killings in Jordan," Cole wrote, "there simply is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the government would be unwilling or unable to control Deena's family members and protect Khalili and his family from harm."

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