AhlulBayt News Agency: A US federal judge has ordered the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian Columbia University student and lawful permanent US resident, who was detained for his involvement in protests against Israel’s aggression in Gaza. The decision marks a significant victory for free speech and civil rights amid growing concerns over political retaliation against pro-Palestinian activists.
Judge Geoffrey Crawford of Vermont ruled on Wednesday that Mahdawi’s detention caused undue harm, noting that he posed no flight risk or danger to the community. Crawford emphasized that Mahdawi’s continued confinement lacked legitimate justification and could suppress protected speech. The judge ordered Mahdawi’s release on bail, allowing him to reside in Vermont and travel to New York for school and legal consultations while his federal and immigration cases proceed.
Mahdawi, a green-card holder born in a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, moved to the US in 2014 and co-founded Columbia’s Palestinian Student Society. He gained attention for his outspoken criticism of Israel’s war on Gaza, including an interview with CBS’ 60 Minutes last December. His arrest during a naturalization interview on April 14 was widely seen as retaliation for his role in campus demonstrations against Israeli actions.
The Trump administration has intensified efforts to deport non-citizen activists linked to pro-Palestinian protests, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirming the revocation of over 300 foreign students’ visas. Officials have accused these activists of undermining US foreign policy and national security interests, sparking widespread criticism from civil rights groups.
Mahdawi’s case highlights the broader crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism in the US, as students across the country face detention and deportation for their involvement in protests condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza.
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