Mohsen Mahdawi, a student at Columbia University and a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, has been released from U.S. immigration custody, according to various American news outlets.
Mahdawi, who holds lawful permanent residency in the United States, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in mid-April after attending a citizenship interview in Vermont. His attorneys challenged the detention in court, arguing it was illegal and driven by political motives.
Government officials claimed Mahdawi’s actions were contrary to U.S. foreign policy. However, his lawyer, Luna Droubi, stated that the arrest was a punitive response to his advocacy for Palestinians and his ethnic background. She called the government’s accusations groundless and contrary to constitutional protections.
On Wednesday, Judge Geoffrey Crawford of Vermont’s District Court approved Mahdawi’s release on bail while the court examines the legality of his detention. A government request to postpone the release for seven days was denied.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which is part of Mahdawi’s legal team, praised the judge’s decision. Droubi expressed relief over his release and vowed to continue fighting for a permanent resolution to his case.
Speaking to supporters outside the courthouse, Mahdawi reaffirmed his commitment to peace and denounced war. “To my people in Palestine: I share your pain, I witness your struggles — and I believe freedom is very close,” he said.
Just one day before his arrest, Mahdawi told CBS News that he had concerns about the interview, suspecting it could be a trap. “I’ve been waiting more than a year for this moment,” he said, “but something didn’t feel right — like it could be a setup.”
His detention has garnered national attention and support from prominent figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who publicly advocated for his release.