Supporters Rally for Palestinian Activist Detained by ICE in Vermont
A significant crowd gathered outside a Vermont courthouse on Wednesday to show solidarity for Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian activist detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Mahdawi, a legal permanent resident for a decade and a Columbia University student, was arrested on April 14 during an interview to finalize his U.S. citizenship, shortly after leading protests advocating for Palestinian rights amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.
During Mahdawi’s initial court appearance, a judge extended a temporary order that keeps him in Vermont and scheduled a hearing for the following week. His attorneys argue that the detention stems primarily from his lawful advocacy and political speech, asserting that the government’s actions reflect a violation of his rights. “We intend on being back in one week’s time to free Mohsen,” attorney Luna Droubi stated following the hearing.
Government officials claim Mahdawi’s detention is a valid aspect of the deportation process, contending that district courts lack jurisdiction over such matters. Mahdawi was allegedly shackled and detained by masked ICE agents immediately after agreeing to uphold U.S. laws.
Born in a West Bank refugee camp and having moved to the U.S. in 2014, Mahdawi is also set to graduate from Columbia this May. In a video shared by U.S. Sen. Peter Welch, Mahdawi expressed optimism about justice, emphasizing his dedication to peacemaking that transcends ethnic boundaries.
As Congress members voiced concern over the treatment of students like Mahdawi, U.S. Sen. Ed Markey highlighted the unjust nature of their detainment, stating they are being targeted due to their political beliefs. Support for Mahdawi continues to grow as he awaits his upcoming immigration court hearing in Louisiana.
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