UPDATE: The owner of the viral “Trump Burger” restaurant, Iyad Abuelhawa, has been detained by ICE as part of an intensified immigration enforcement effort. This marks the second high-profile arrest of a MAGA-branded restaurateur this summer, following the detention of his business partner, Roland Beainy, in Texas.
Abuelhawa, aged 55, was taken into custody on June 2, 2023, accused of being in the U.S. illegally for over a decade, with a deportation order issued on September 15, 2009. An ICE spokesperson stated, “While in the U.S. illegally, Abuelhawa has repeatedly put the lives of innocent Americans in jeopardy.”
Abuelhawa’s background reveals a troubling history, including a previous conviction for healthcare fraud in 2007 for administering fake flu shots to thousands. He also has convictions for assault and intimidation. ICE confirmed that Abuelhawa will not be released from custody, emphasizing their commitment to enforcing immigration laws under the current administration.
The detainment has drawn renewed attention after a Houston Chronicle report resurfaced this month. Abuelhawa’s lawyers claim he is in poor health, suffering from severe diabetes and heart issues while being held at an ICE facility north of Houston. They allege he has been denied critical medical care, a claim that the Department of Homeland Security disputes, asserting that detainees receive proper health services.
Beainy, who was also detained this summer, faces accusations of overstaying a visa and attempting to arrange a fraudulent marriage. His arrest has further spotlighted the ongoing scrutiny of businesses tied to the Trump brand.
Abuelhawa, originally from Jerusalem and known as Eddie Hawa, gained notoriety by rebranding his restaurant in Bellville, Texas, to “Trump Cafe” in October 2016, just before Donald Trump’s election victory. Despite the cafe’s initial popularity, it closed in November 2017 and never reopened. In 2020, he launched “Trump Burger,” which quickly expanded to multiple locations in the Houston area, attracting significant attention and customers.
As the situation develops, the implications of Abuelhawa’s arrest extend beyond the restaurant scene. The local community and supporters of the MAGA brand are reacting to the news with mixed emotions, highlighting the complexities of immigration enforcement and its impact on individuals with controversial pasts.
Next steps remain uncertain, but Abuelhawa’s case emphasizes the ongoing focus on immigration violations under current U.S. policies. ICE’s commitment to enforcing laws and ensuring public safety continues to draw both support and criticism from various sectors.
This story will continue to evolve, with many watching closely for further developments regarding Abuelhawa’s legal battles and the fate of the Trump Burger brand. Stay tuned for updates as this urgent situation unfolds.
