The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called on the US Department of Education to look into the expulsion of Jad Abuhamda, a Palestinian American high school student, following pro-Palestinian content posted by his mother on social media. The incident, which occurred at Pine Crest School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has raised concerns about freedom of expression and potential bias against pro-Palestinian individuals.

According to a news release issued by CAIR on Wednesday, 15-year-old Jad Abuhamda was expelled from Pine Crest School on November 19, while his mother, Dr. Maha Almasri, was fired from her position as a math tutor at the school. The disciplinary action was a result of Almasri's posts criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza and expressing concern over the well-being of Palestinian civilians and children during the ongoing conflict.

The private school defended its decision, stating that they considered Almasri's social media posts to be "hateful and incendiary," potentially inciting hatred and creating a climate of fear. They claimed that such behavior could increase the risk of violence within the school community and compromise the safety of students, employees, and families.

However, Almasri has denied these allegations, stating that her posts were taken out of context and were intended to shed light on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a news conference held by CAIR, Almasri emphasized that her posts were not meant to incite violence or hatred.

CAIR Florida managing attorney Omar Saleh criticized the lack of response from Pine Crest School to their letters requesting more information regarding Jad's expulsion. Saleh also highlighted what CAIR described as inaccurate accusations about Almasri's social media content. CAIR's call for an investigation is focused on Jad's expulsion, asserting that he did not engage in any behavior to warrant such severe action.

Jad, who has been unable to attend classes since November 19, expressed his frustration and sadness at being expelled for something he had no control over. He disclosed that he had always kept his Palestinian heritage hidden until this incident, and now feels empowered to be open about his identity. Jad described Pine Crest School as his home, a place where he felt comfortable and surrounded by a community of friends.

Support for the Abuhamda family has been pouring in, with an anonymous petition to reinstate Jad gathering more than 31,000 signatures within two weeks. CAIR emphasized that their concern extends beyond this specific case, aiming to protect the rights of Arabs, Muslims, and pro-Palestinian individuals who face unfair punishment for voicing their criticism of Israel's actions.

CAIR has reported over 2,171 incidents of anti-Muslim and anti-Arab bias since October 7, including cases where students and faculty members faced consequences for supporting Palestinian rights. The organization hopes that a thorough investigation by the US Department of Education will shed light on potential bias and ensure that individuals advocating for Palestinian rights are not unfairly targeted.

CNN has reached out to the Department of Education for comment on CAIR's request. The outcome of the investigation could have broader implications for the protection of free speech and the fair treatment of pro-Palestinian individuals within educational institutions.