Imam Ayman Soliman Detained: US Cincinnati Community Rallies

Imam Ayman Soliman, a revered figure at Clifton Mosque in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a former chaplain at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, during what he expected to be a routine asylum check-in. His detention has sparked immediate outrage and protests from faith leaders and Ohio state representatives, who gathered to decry the action, Daily Dazzling Dawn understands.

Soliman, who immigrated from Egypt over a decade ago, had held asylum status for more than 10 years. However, his asylum status was inexplicably revoked last December, the reason for which remains undisclosed.

Tala Ali, chairperson of Clifton Mosque, located at 3668 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio, emphasized Soliman's significant contributions to the community. "One should not have to be an asset for their humanity to be recognized, but Ayman is that," Ali stated, expressing shock at the turn of events. Soliman arrived at the Homeland Security Office in Blue Ash, expecting a standard check-in, but was instead subjected to three hours of questioning before being detained.

Cleveland-based attorney Robert Ratliff confirmed his representation of Soliman. In a statement, Ratliff expressed disappointment with ICE's decision and indicated that his team would be reviewing the matter before issuing further comments. Soliman's legal team had previously been informed that a hearing on his asylum case would be scheduled for later this summer.

The detention of Imam Soliman has sent ripples through the local Cincinnati community, highlighting concerns about immigration policies and their impact on long-standing residents and community leaders.

The community continues to monitor the situation closely, and any further developments would likely be shared through official channels or local news outlets.