Almassri, who has over 100 relatives in Australia, was reportedly suffering from trauma and back injuries, and her family highlighted her vulnerability during the detention process.

The case raises questions about the application of the character test under the Migration Act, which considers individuals security risks if assessed by ASIO.

Tony Burke, the Minister for Home Affairs, declined to comment on the specifics of her case, emphasizing that the security checks are functioning as intended.

This incident marks a shift from previous policies, as recent cases suggest onshore visa cancellations for Palestinians, whereas the government previously stated such cancellations were offshore.

Almassri arrived in Australia fleeing Gaza during the 1948 Nakba, with her family displaced and some relatives killed during recent conflicts, and had been living with her son since February 2024.

The Australian government has not publicly disclosed details of her case, citing ongoing investigations and confidentiality of intelligence information.

Maha Almassri, a 62-year-old Palestinian woman who fled Gaza and arrived in Australia in February 2024, was detained during a pre-dawn raid at her son's Sydney home on July 10, 2025, sparking family distress and protests.

Her visa was canceled by the Department of Home Affairs after assessments by ASIO deemed her a security risk, leading to her failing the character test under the Migration Act.

The visa cancellation was personally decided by Assistant Citizenship Minister Julian Hill, citing national interest and security concerns, with the government not publicly commenting due to ongoing investigations.

The raid involved approximately 15 officers from the Australian Border Force, with additional officers stationed outside her residence, and she was transferred to Villawood detention center.

Her family and supporters protested outside the department, demanding her release, while her cousin expressed concern over her health and safety amid her distress.

Human rights lawyer Alison Battisson criticized the detention process, questioning the rationale behind detaining a vulnerable individual and the feasibility of returning her to Gaza.