Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian student who was arrested during his U.S. citizenship interview, is now advocating for immigrants facing deportation in Vermont after being released from custody on April 30, 2025.

Vermont Governor Phil Scott also condemned the manner of Mahdawi's arrest, asserting that law enforcement should not operate in secrecy and emphasizing the limits of federal power.

During his detention, Mahdawi maintained a message of resilience, famously signaling peace with two fingers at the time of his arrest to reassure supporters.

His release was supported by over 125 influential figures who wrote letters attesting to his character and commitment to nonviolence, which contributed to the judge's decision.

Local organizations and community leaders are collaborating to establish Mahdawi's initiative, emphasizing the need for accessible legal resources for immigrants facing deportation.

Following his release, Mahdawi criticized Columbia University for its handling of protests, claiming it aligns with the Trump administration's agenda, which he believes undermines democratic values.

This case is seen as potentially precedent-setting, raising important questions about the balance between national security and constitutional rights related to free expression.

In a recent essay published in The New York Times, Mahdawi emphasized themes of justice and love, reflecting on his experiences and advocating for societal change.

Despite the risks associated with his activism, Mahdawi remains hopeful and encourages fellow students to believe in justice, citing recent legal victories as evidence of progress.

Reflecting on his experiences, Mahdawi noted that the kindness and safety he feels in Vermont starkly contrasts with the threats he faced in the West Bank.

A federal judge released Mahdawi, noting that the allegations against him were unfounded and highlighting the community support he received, which included letters from over 90 individuals.

Now back in White River Junction, Vermont, Mahdawi is focusing on his pending immigration case while sharing insights from his recent experiences in prison.