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Mohsen Mahdawi, a 34-year-old Palestinian-born permanent U.S. resident and Columbia University student, gained national attention in April 2025 when U.S. immigration authorities detained him in Vermont. His arrest occurred during what was meant to be his final citizenship interview.
Officials cited concerns that his activism, including involvement in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, might pose a risk to U.S. foreign policy. Mahdawi's lawyers argued that his detention was an attempt to punish constitutionally protected political activity.
The arrest triggered widespread protests. From April 16 to April 23, rallies and vigils were organized at the prison, at the Vermont Statehouse, and on Columbia's campus. Students, faculty, lawmakers, clergy, and community members-including Jewish allies-joined in demanding his release. Some demonstrators at Columbia even chained themselves to campus fences.
On April 30, Federal Judge Geoffrey Crawford ordered Mahdawi's release, ruling that there was no evidence he was dangerous or likely to flee. While authorities had referenced a prior statement Mahdawi made regarding violence, the judge deemed it unproven and irrelevant. His release was met with celebration, and Mahdawi later spoke publicly about his experiences, advocating for dialogue and security for both Palestinians and Jews.
Afterward, Mahdawi returned to New York, graduated from Columbia in May 2025, and helped set up a legal-defense fund in Vermont to assist immigrants facing similar situations. His case has highlighted the tensions between political activism, free speech, and immigration enforcement, raising questions about whether dissent could become grounds for deportation.
Deportation proceedings are still ongoing, and the case continues to spark debate on civil liberties and national security.
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