Community support for Mahdawi has been robust, with rallies, letters of support, and discussions on how to respond to ICE actions.

Mahdawi's situation raises significant concerns about freedom of speech, as he faces removal under the Immigration and Nationality Act without being charged with a crime.

Lawmakers, including Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale, expressed outrage over Mahdawi's arrest, calling for due process and condemning the circumstances of his detention.

The court received over 94 letters advocating for Mahdawi's release, a level of support considered unprecedented in similar cases.

Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student and legal permanent resident, was arrested by ICE during a citizenship interview in Vermont on April 14, 2025, and is currently detained pending a hearing.

His attorneys argue that the arrest is retaliatory, stemming from his advocacy for peace and a ceasefire in Gaza, which they claim violates his First Amendment rights.

DHS officials have stated that individuals advocating for violence or terrorism risk visa or green card revocation, although they did not comment specifically on Mahdawi's case.

Despite his detention, Mahdawi conveyed a message of hope to supporters, stating he is 'in prison, but not imprisoned,' and encouraged them to believe in justice.

The case has garnered attention from advocacy groups demanding transparency and fairness in the treatment of international students.

The House of Representatives has passed a resolution demanding Mahdawi's immediate release, criticizing the manner of his arrest by immigration authorities.

Mahdawi's legal team remains optimistic about his release, emphasizing the case's significance for immigrants and the judge's intent to expedite proceedings.

His detention has sparked significant community mobilization, with hundreds attending a rally in Vermont to advocate for his release.