Mohsen Mahdawi, a 34-year-old Palestinian student at Columbia University and long-time U.S. permanent resident, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on April 14, 2025, during what was supposed to be his final naturalization interview in Colchester, Vermont. The arrest, which occurred without prior charges, sparked national outcry and raised concerns about the suppression of political activism.
Background and Activism
Mahdawi, a philosophy student set to graduate in May 2025, has been a prominent figure in pro-Palestinian activism on Columbia’s campus. He co-founded the Palestinian Student Union and was involved in organizing demonstrations related to the Gaza conflict. Despite his activism, Mahdawi has been recognized for promoting dialogue and condemning antisemitism. In a 2023 incident, he publicly denounced antisemitic remarks made during a campus protest, emphasizing his commitment to peaceful advocacy.
Detention and Legal Proceedings
The U.S. government justified Mahdawi’s detention under a rarely used national security provision, citing concerns that his activism could harm U.S. foreign policy interests. However, no formal charges were filed against him. His legal team argued that the arrest was retaliatory, aimed at silencing his political expression. On April 30, 2025, U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford ordered Mahdawi’s release, stating that his continued detention posed a threat to free speech rights and likening the government’s actions to McCarthy-era repression.
Community and Political Response
Mahdawi’s arrest prompted widespread support from various communities and political figures. Vermont’s congressional delegation, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch, condemned the detention as “immoral, inhumane, and illegal.” Advocacy groups and fellow students rallied for his release, highlighting concerns over the targeting of activists based on political beliefs.
Current Status
Following his release, Mahdawi remains under conditional supervision while legal proceedings continue. He has resumed his studies and is preparing to graduate. In public statements, Mahdawi has reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful advocacy and expressed gratitude for the support he received during his detention.
Mahdawi’s case underscores ongoing debates about immigration enforcement and the protection of free speech, particularly concerning political activism on college campuses.
