Palestinian Activist Graduates Columbia After ICE Detention

Palestinian activist Mohsen Mahdawi, a green-card holder from the West Bank and pro-Palestinian leader at Columbia University, graduated with a degree in philosophy just weeks after being detained by U.S. immigration authorities during a citizenship interview. His arrest was part of a broader Trump administration crackdown on pro-Palestinian student activists, with federal officials arguing these beliefs could threaten U.S. foreign policy. Mahdawi was held for 16 days without criminal charges before a judge ordered his release, criticizing the government's actions as repressive. His graduation was celebrated with standing ovations but was bittersweet as fellow activist Mahmoud Khalil remains in federal custody. Mahdawi and his supporters have condemned both Columbia University and federal authorities for not safeguarding students' rights and for targeting activism. The case underscores ongoing disputes over free speech, political activism, and immigration enforcement on American campuses.