Press Release
Palestinian Student Released After Controversial Arrest During Citizenship Interview
Vermont, USA – A judge has released Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student at Columbia University, who was arrested by immigration officials during a citizenship interview amid protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza. His release marks a significant moment for numerous students facing similar circumstances nationwide.
Mahdawi, in detention since April 14, became a focal point for advocacy, leading hundreds of supporters in chants of “No fear” and “Free Palestine” as he exited the courthouse. "We must defend democracy and humanity," he stated, urging collective action against injustice.
U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford emphasized the First Amendment protections of Mahdawi’s actions, ruling that his arrest appeared aimed at stifling dissent. The government, however, maintains that Mahdawi poses a national security threat, citing past FBI investigations, which Crawford dismissed as unfounded.
Born in a refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Mahdawi moved to the U.S. in 2014. He co-founded the Palestinian Student Union at Columbia and has been actively involved in protests until March of this year. His release allows him to attend his graduation in New York and continue his studies.
Meanwhile, his colleague Mahmoud Khalil remains detained in Louisiana, facing potential deportation under similar charges. High-profile cases like those of Mahdawi and Tufts student Rümeysa Öztürk, who was detained for her outspoken views, have sparked national debate about immigration policies and civil liberties on college campuses.
Mahdawi’s release has elicited mixed reactions, with some criticizing universities for compliance with the federal government’s crackdown on dissenting voices. In response, Columbia reaffirmed its commitment to due process for all individuals, regardless of their citizenship status. As Mahdawi prepares for his next steps, he vows to continue advocating for justice.
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