In his first media comments since his April 14 detainment, Columbia University student Mohsen Mahdawi expressed confidence that he will not be deported. The 34-year-old U.S. permanent resident, originally from a refugee camp in the West Bank, spoke from the Northwest State Correctional Facility in Vermont, where he was accompanied by an attorney. Despite feeling the injustice of his situation, Mahdawi stated, “I have faith that justice will prevail,” attributing this optimism to the support he has received and his belief in U.S. democracy.
Mahdawi, who began attending Columbia in 2021, has actively organized pro-Palestinian protests. He described how his experience in the al-Fara’a refugee camp shaped his view of freedom before immigrating to the U.S. He reflected on the precariousness of his situation after being arrested by ICE agents while attending what he thought was his final step toward citizenship. Concerns arose that he might be sent to a distant facility, as had happened to fellow detainee Mahmoud Khalil.
In his NPR interview, Mahdawi invoked Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing that the injustices he faces are connected to broader issues affecting the Palestinian people, who he noted have suffered extensive violence. He denounced claims by U.S. officials that his actions could harm foreign policy, suggesting they are manipulating narratives and undermining the values of hope and justice. Despite his challenges, Mahdawi affirmed his desire to become an American citizen, urging the public to stand for what is right. A crucial hearing is scheduled soon to determine his fate regarding release or deportation.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
