Palestinian activist released on bail after arrest by U.S. immigration authorities

Columbia University student and Palestinian activist Mohsen Mahdawi has been released on bail following his arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in mid-April during a citizenship interview in Vermont. Mahdawi, a U.S. green card holder, was accused by the government of undermining U.S. foreign policy.

His legal team, including the ACLU, argued the detention was unlawful and retaliatory due to his Palestinian identity and activism. A Vermont district judge granted his release on Wednesday, rejecting a government request to delay it. Attorney Luna Droubi called the allegations against Mahdawi baseless and pledged continued legal efforts on his behalf.

After his release, Mahdawi expressed solidarity with Palestinians and reaffirmed his commitment to peace. His arrest drew national attention, with Senator Bernie Sanders and others voicing support. Mahdawi’s case is among several involving student activists detained amid protests over U.S. policy and international conflicts.