BURLINGTON, USA – Mohsen Mahdawi, a Columbia University student and Palestinian-American activist, was released from federal immigration detention on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, after two weeks in custody, following a Vermont judge’s ruling that his continued detention posed “great harm” in the absence of any criminal charges.
U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford ordered Mahdawi’s release with conditions, including restrictions limiting his travel to Vermont and New York City for academic and legal obligations.
The decision marked a turning point in a case that has drawn national attention over alleged retaliation by federal authorities for Mahdawi’s campus activism related to Palestinian rights.
“His detention so far demonstrates great harm to a person who has been charged with no crime,” Judge Crawford stated in court, prompting an emotional reaction from Mahdawi’s supporters.
Several in the courtroom reportedly wept and held hands as the ruling was read.
Outside the courthouse, a defiant Mahdawi addressed a gathering of supporters and media.
“My release is not just about me,” he said.
“It sends a message that we, the people, will hold the Constitution accountable for the principles and values that we believe in.”
Mahdawi, a lawful permanent resident and green card holder, was arrested by masked immigration agents following what was supposed to be a routine naturalization interview in Vermont.
He had previously participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on Columbia’s campus during the Israel-Hamas war, drawing criticism from federal officials.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has defended Mahdawi’s detention, with Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stating in a written response to NPR: “The Trump Administration is committed to restoring the rule of law to our immigration system.
No judge, not this one or any other, is going to stop us from doing that.”
McLaughlin alleged that Mahdawi “advocate[d] for violence,” “glorified terrorists,” and “harassed Jews,” although no formal charges related to those claims have been filed.
Mahdawi’s legal team has strongly denied the allegations and characterised his arrest as a politically motivated retaliation for his public stance on Palestinian human rights.
“Advocating for a ceasefire, protesting against war, or criticising foreign policy is not a crime,” said one of his attorneys, who called the ruling a “crucial affirmation of First Amendment protections.”
The case is expected to continue as Mahdawi challenges any further attempts by immigration officials to revoke his residency or deny his path to citizenship.
Speaking to the press on Wednesday, Mahdawi was resolute.
“And I am saying it, clear and loud,” he said. “To President Trump and his cabinet, I’m not afraid of you.”
The ruling comes amid a broader national debate over student protests, immigration enforcement, and free speech rights in the context of U.S. policy on the Middle East.
