Judge frees Mohsen Mahdawi after ICE detainment during citizenship interview

In the United States, a federal judge ordered the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student activist, after he was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during his citizenship interview in mid-April. Mahdawi, a legal permanent resident since 2014, was arrested in Vermont on April 14, 2025, and held for two weeks amid accusations that his advocacy for Palestinian rights posed a threat to U.S. foreign policy. During his detention, multiple supporters, including lawmakers, rallied for his release, asserting that the charges stemmed from his free speech rights. During a hearing, Judge Geoffrey Crawford underscored that the detention demonstrated significant harm to Mahdawi, who had been an outspoken critic of U.S. policies regarding Palestine and organized related protests on the Columbia University campus. Support from over 90 community members, including individuals from the Jewish community, highlighted Mahdawi's reputation as a peaceful activist. His legal team argued that the government's actions were retaliatory and violated constitutional rights, as Mahdawi was detained during a critical moment in his pathway to citizenship. Mahdawi's release was celebrated by his supporters, who echoed his sentiments of hope. After the hearing, he addressed the crowd and directly confronted President Trump, announcing, “I am not afraid of you.” This incident exemplifies the ongoing tensions surrounding free speech and activism in the United States, particularly concerning issues related to Palestine. As he prepares to graduate from Columbia University, Mahdawi will continue to advocate for Palestinian rights remotely from Vermont, where he was instructed to remain during the ongoing legal proceedings. Supporters and activists continue to express concern over the treatment of individuals within the immigration system, reflecting broader implications for those who engage in political speech or activism against the U.S. government's foreign policy. The case has drawn attention to the deportation process and how it can impact lawful residents. As Mahdawi's legal team assesses the situation, they reaffirm their commitment to fighting for his complete freedom and the rights of other activists facing similar challenges. The case underscores the critical balance between national security interests and individual civil liberties, highlighting the need for vigilant oversight in immigration enforcement practices.