Judge orders Mohsen Mahdawi's release, acknowledging community support and activism amid rising tensions over immigration enforcement

A federal judge has ordered the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, recognizing community support and his peaceful activism as key factors in the decision, amidst ongoing immigration policy challenges.

Sources:

Updated 27m ago

The Headline

Community Response and Judicial Support for Mahdawi

Today’s victory cannot be overstated.

Shezza Abboushi Dallal

Mahdawi’s attorney

He has used his voice to advocate for peace, justice and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis.

Senator Bernie Sanders

I am saying it clear and loud. To President Trump and his Cabinet: I am not afraid of you.

Mohsen Mahdawi

Number of letters of support for Mahdawi

Key Facts

U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford ordered Mahdawi's release on bail while his legal case proceeds, citing his lack of public safety risk.2
Judge Crawford noted Mahdawi's release was in the public interest and specified that he poses no flight risk.
More than 90 community members provided letters of support, including from the Jewish community, describing Mahdawi as peaceful.

Future Outlook

Future Implications for Activism and Immigration Enforcement

This is what justice is. And for anybody who's doubting justice, this is a light of hope.

Mohsen Mahdawi

We are hopeful that it will build momentum for the release of Mahmoud Khalil, Rumeysa Öztürk, Dr. Bader Khan Suri, and other students and scholars detained for their speech.

Noor Zafar

ACLU Senior Staff Attorney

Key Facts

Immigration enforcement policies are being challenged as politicized efforts targeting speech, reflecting wider impacts on activists.1
The ruling represents a notable victory against the Trump administration's immigration policies targeting dissent.

Background Context

Background on Mahdawi's Detention and Activism

Age of Mohsen Mahdawi

34 years

Date of Mahdawi's detention

April 14

Key Facts

Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian green card holder, has lived in the U.S. since 2014 and is a legal permanent resident.2
Columbia University student Mahdawi was a key organizer of pro-Palestinian protests, notably co-founding the Palestinian Student Union.1
April 14, 2025 marked the date of Mahdawi's detention at a naturalization interview in Vermont, following which he was targeted for deportation.

Judge orders Mohsen Mahdawi's release, acknowledging community support and activism amid rising tensions over immigration enforcement

Community Response and Judicial Support for Mahdawi

Future Implications for Activism and Immigration Enforcement

Background on Mahdawi's Detention and Activism

Other Facts in these Reports

Source Citations