Palestinian Student Detained at Citizenship Interview Remains in Vermont Amid Legal Challenges

Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student and legal permanent U.S. resident who led pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University, was arrested by immigration agents during his citizenship interview and is being detained in Vermont. A federal judge has ordered that Mahdawi remain in Vermont while further legal arguments are prepared, extending a restraining order that blocks his deportation or transfer. Mahdawi's lawyers argue his detention is unconstitutional and retaliatory, claiming it is based solely on his advocacy for Palestinian human rights and violates his First Amendment rights. The government maintains that his detention is lawful under an immigration provision allowing visa revocation for perceived foreign policy concerns, while also disputing the court’s jurisdiction over the case. Supporters and civil rights advocates have rallied outside the courthouse, highlighting concerns that Mahdawi and other students are being targeted for their activism. Another hearing to determine his release is scheduled for next week.