A Palestinian student, Mohsen Mahdawi, studying at Columbia University and residing in White River Junction, was arrested by federal agents in Colchester while attending a citizenship interview. Vermont Sen. Becca White captured the arrest on video, emphasizing that Mahdawi was targeted for free speech reasons and should be protected by his First Amendment rights. Federal Court Judge William Sessions III has ordered that Mahdawi cannot be removed from the United States or out of Vermont until further court orders.
Mahdawi, who participated in student protests against the war in Gaza, had his green card suddenly revoked, according to his lawyer. White, a friend of Mahdawi, was present at his citizenship interview for safety reasons. The Vermont Congressional Delegation condemned the arrest, emphasizing that Mahdawi, a legal resident of the United States, deserves due process and immediate release from detention.
The delegation called the arrest immoral, inhumane, and illegal, demanding Mahdawi be allowed to continue his citizenship process. His attorneys have filed a temporary restraining order to prevent the government from moving him out of Vermont. The arrest has caused confusion and shock, with White highlighting Mahdawi’s deep involvement in the community, making his arrest alarming to many. This is a breaking news story, and updates will be provided as they are available.
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