Appeals court reverses decision that released pro-Palestinian Columbia activist Mohsen Mahdawi

A federal appeals court has reversed a lower court decision that had ordered the release of pro-Palestinian activist Mohsen Mahdawi. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the federal judge had overstepped by intervening in Mahdawi's case before it had fully progressed through the immigration court system. This decision allows for Mahdawi, who is appealing an order of removal, to potentially be re-arrested. The appeals court did not rule on the merits of Mahdawi's claim of unconstitutional targeting for criticizing Israel, stating he can pursue those claims after exhausting immigration court options. Mahdawi was arrested in April 2025 during a citizenship interview as part of the Trump administration's efforts to deport noncitizens who criticized Israel.

A US appeals court has overturned a lower court ruling that had ordered the release of Columbia University activist Mohsen Mahdawi from immigration detention. This decision marks another legal victory for the Trump administration in its efforts to deport foreign student protesters. Mahdawi, a lawful permanent resident born in the occupied West Bank, was arrested in April 2025 and detained, though he was not charged with any crime. Previously, a US District Judge had ordered his release, stating he had free speech rights and that the administration was causing harm. However, the Board of Immigration Appeals reinstated deportation proceedings in May, overturning a decision by an immigration judge. Mahdawi has accused the administration of using the immigration system to silence his political advocacy.