Judge Releases Palestinian Student Activist Who was Arrested at His Citizenship Interview
A judge on Wednesday released a Palestinian man who led protests against the war in Gaza as a student at Columbia University and was arrested by immigration officials during an interview about finalizing his US citizenship.
Outside the courthouse in Vermont, Mohsen Mahdawhi led supporters in chanting “The people united will never be defeated” “No fear” and “Free Palestine.” He said people must come together in the defense of both democracy and humanity, The AP news reported.
“Never give up on the idea that justice will prevail,” he said. “We want to stand up for humanity, because the rest of the world – not only Palestine – is watching us. And what is going to happen in America is going to affect the rest of the world.”
His notice to appear in immigration court says Mahdawi is removable under the Immigration and Nationality Act because US Secretary of State Marco Rubio determined his presence and activities “would have serious adverse foreign policy consequences and would compromise a compelling US foreign policy interest.”
His lawyers say Mahdawi — legal permanent resident for 10 years — was detained in retaliation for his speech advocating for Palestinian human rights.
