Palestinian Student Released Amid Controversial Arrest Over Protests
A federal judge has released Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student at Columbia University, who was arrested by immigration officials during a citizenship interview. Mahdawi, a prominent figure in protests against Israel’s Gaza actions, emerged from a Vermont courthouse on Wednesday to cheers from supporters, leading chants of “No fear” and “Free Palestine.”
Judge Geoffrey Crawford emphasized that Mahdawi’s arrest raised serious concerns about free speech violations. He stated Mahdawi had a “substantial claim” suggesting the government’s actions aimed to suppress dissent. Despite the U.S. government’s argument for Mahdawi’s removal under the Immigration and Nationality Act due to perceived national security threats, the judge deemed the accusations against him unsubstantiated and the investigation previously closed.
The Massachusetts resident—who has held legal permanent status for ten years—had been detained since April 14. His release allows him to travel outside Vermont and attend his graduation in New York next month. Advocates see this victory as a crucial stand for free speech, with Mahdawi stating, “Never give up on the idea that justice will prevail.”
The U.S. government has faced backlash for detaining more than 1,000 international students following their protests, as seen in other high-profile cases like Tufts University’s Rümeysa Öztürk. Critics of the administration’s policies argue these actions echo historical instances of political repression.
Columbia University, which has witnessed upheaval over its handling of protests, reaffirmed its commitment to due process for all individuals. Mahdawi’s case symbolizes ongoing debates over immigration policy in relation to free speech, drawing national attention to the intersection of activism and legal challenges within the U.S.
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