A federal judge has ruled in favor of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University student, granting him bail and allowing him to remain in the U.S. as he contests deportation attempts by the Trump administration. The case centers around Mahdawi’s involvement in pro-Palestinian protests, which U.S. officials claim undermine American foreign policy.
Mahdawi, a Palestinian raised in a West Bank refugee camp, was arrested earlier this month during an interview for his citizenship petition. He was detained by immigration authorities, and a swift legal battle ensued. In a significant decision, U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford ordered Mahdawi’s release from custody, citing his lack of risk to public safety and his right to challenge the deportation.
The ruling came after Mahdawi spent two weeks in detention. “I’m not afraid of you,” he declared as he walked out of the Burlington, Vermont courthouse, where dozens of supporters waved Palestinian flags in solidarity. He described the judge’s decision as “a light of hope” and a victory for justice.
This case highlights growing tensions between the U.S. government and foreign nationals critical of the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza. The Trump administration has made it clear that it views support for Palestinian rights as a threat to U.S. interests, with Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin suggesting Mahdawi should lose his green card.
However, the administration’s stance has sparked outrage from critics who argue that such actions violate free speech protections under the First Amendment. Vermont’s Congressional delegation, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Becca Balint, condemned the detention, calling it “shameful and immoral.”
Mahdawi, who has lived in the U.S. for a decade, is set to graduate from Columbia University in May. His case is part of a broader pattern of crackdowns on pro-Palestinian activists, with other students like Mahmoud Khalil of Columbia and Rumeysa Ozturk of Tufts University still detained without charges.
Despite the challenges, Mahdawi remains firm in his beliefs. “I said no to war, yes to peace,” he said after his release. “Enough is enough.”
The judge’s ruling is a significant step in upholding the rights of non-citizens to engage in political speech without fear of government retaliation. As Mahdawi continues his legal fight, the outcome may have far-reaching implications for free speech and activism in the U.S.
