Two United Airlines Passengers File Federal Lawsuit Alleging Antisemitic Discrimination

Two passengers have alleged they were victims of antisemitic discrimination and unlawful detention on a United Airlines flight from Mexico to Houston on January 28th. The passengers, Yisroel Liebb and Jacob Sebbag, have filed a lawsuit claiming that one of the pilots forcibly removed Liebb from the restroom while making antisemitic remarks and that both were unjustly detained upon arrival in the US. The incident reportedly began when Liebb was using the aircraft’s lavatory for an extended period due to constipation. A flight attendant's initial actions were cooperative, but tension escalated when a pilot allegedly broke the lavatory lock, forcing Liebb out partially undressed. The lawsuit also cites physical harm, emotional distress, and violation of rights under the Montreal Convention. Upon detention, Homeland Security officers allegedly told the passengers they had no rights in the situation. The pair missed their connecting flight, incurring extra costs for accommodations and meals. The incident has provoked strong opinions online, with comments varying from defending the airline crew's need for safety protocols to criticizing alleged antisemitic behavior and the perceived absence of other passengers' viewpoints. United Airlines declined to comment on the matter. This lawsuit raises important discussions about passenger rights, religious discrimination, and airline protocol, which remain unresolved until further evidence is examined in court.