Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
Columbia University Pro-Palestine Protest Organizer Detained by ICE
NEW YORK, NY – Mohsen Mahdawi, a prominent organizer of pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia University, has been apprehended by U.S. immigration authorities. According to his legal counsel, the arrest occurred during an interview related to his application for American citizenship. The green card holder and soon-to-be Columbia graduate student was taken into custody in Colchester, Vermont, on Monday, prompting concerns about the timing and motivations behind the action.
Arrest During Citizenship Application Sparks Outcry
Mr. Mahdawi’s lawyer asserts that his detention is a direct consequence of his involvement in recent campus protests opposing the conflict in Gaza. The attorney contends this action is retaliatory, targeting his advocacy and Palestinian identity. Other individuals linked to pro-Palestine campus demonstrations, including Mahmoud Khalil from Columbia University and Rumeysa Ozturk of Tufts University, have also faced similar detentions, raising broader questions about freedom of expression and immigration enforcement.
ICE Contacted for Details, Video Circulates
The BBC has reached out to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) seeking further clarification regarding the specifics of Mr. Mahdawi’s apprehension. Footage circulating on social media purportedly depicts Mr. Mahdawi being escorted into a vehicle by two officers in law enforcement jackets.
Lawyer Alleges Retaliation and Unconstitutionality
Luna Droubi, Mr. Mahdawi’s lawyer, stated, “The prior administration detained Mohsen Mahdawi in direct retaliation for his advocacy on behalf of Palestinians and because of his identity as a Palestinian.” She further argued, “His detention represents an attempt to silence voices critical of the atrocities in Gaza and is a violation of constitutional rights.”
Legal Action and Court Intervention
In response to the detention, Mr. Mahdawi’s legal team filed an appeal in federal court requesting a temporary restraining order. The order aimed to prevent immigration officials from transferring Mr. Mahdawi out of Vermont or deporting him from the United States. Judge William Sessions granted this order swiftly.
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Profile of Detained Student Activist
Court documents reveal Mr. Mahdawi was born in a West Bank refugee camp and immigrated to the U.S. in 2014. Described as a philosophy major, the filing emphasizes his commitment to Buddhist principles, highlighting “non-violence and empathy” as core tenets of his beliefs. His current location remains undisclosed, according to Ms. Droubi, despite holding permanent resident status in the U.S. since 2015.
Mahdawi’s Advocacy and Criticism of Israeli Actions
Co-founder of Palestinian Student Group
Mr. Mahdawi is a co-founder of Columbia’s Palestinian Student Society and has been a vocal critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Accusation of Genocide
In a prior interview with CBS’ 60 Minutes, Mr. Mahdawi accused Israel of genocide, a claim that Israel firmly denies.
Detention Amid Immigration Crackdown
Broader Context of Immigration Enforcement
Mr. Mahdawi’s detention occurs amidst increased immigration enforcement measures.
Visa Revocations and Free Speech Concerns
Recently, a U.S. official indicated that numerous foreign student visas have been revoked to address antisemitism on university campuses. Critics argue that these actions unfairly target students, falsely accusing them of bigotry and infringing upon their right to free speech.
Political Reactions and Ongoing Legal Battles
Senator Sanders Condemns Detention
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders voiced his concern on social media, stating Mr. Mahdawi “was illegally detained by ICE during what was supposed to be the final step in his citizenship process.” The senator insisted on due process and immediate release from detention.
Judge Sessions Oversees Related Case
Judge Sessions also presided over a hearing regarding Rumeysa Ozturk, the Tufts University student detained last month. He questioned the potential for a “constitutional crisis” if the government defied a court order to move her from Louisiana detention back to Vermont.
Legal Challenge for Mahmoud Khalil
Separately, attorneys for Mahmoud Khalil are contesting a recent ruling that permits his deportation as a national security threat. Mr. Khalil, another Columbia University protest leader, was previously detained and transferred to a detention facility.