NBC NIGHTLY NEWS
4/30/25
6:38 PM
LESTER HOLT: Now to an update on a Columbia University student activist detained by the Trump administration. Today a federal judge ordered Mohsen Mahdawi to be released on bail as he fights deportation. We get more from Stephanie Gosk.
STEPHANIE GOSK: Tonight, Palestinian Mohsen Mahdawi is released on bail, and sounding victorious.
MOSHEN MAHDAWI: For anybody who is doubting justice, this is a light of hope. A hope and faith in the justice system and in America.
GOSK: THe Columbia University student, who is a legal permanent resident in the U.S., was detained during an immigration interview in Vermont earlier this month, handcuffed and removed by federal agents. Last year, Mahdawi helped lead pro-Palestinian protests on campus. In a statement, the DHS says “a green card is a privilege. When you advocate for violence, glorify and support terrorists that relish the killing of Americans, and harass Jews, it should be revoked.” Mahdawi denies he has ever advocated for violence.
MAHDAWI: They arrested me. What's the reason? Because I raised my voice.
GOSK: The federal judge ordered Mahdawi released on bail while he challenges his detention. His legal team arguing that the government is trying to silence his opposition to the war in Gaza.
SHEZZA ABBOUSHI DALAL: This is not the first time we’ve seen the government go after basic First Amendment rights.
GOSK: In his ruling, the judge says “Mahdawi appears not to be either a flight risk or a danger to the community.” Adding that “continuing to detain him would likely have a chilling effect on protected speech.” DHS responding, “the Trump administration is committed to restoring the rule of law to our immigration system. No judge, not this one or any other, is going to stop us from doing that.” On the steps of the court, after two weeks in detention, Marawi with a defiant message for the administration.
MAHDAWI: To President Trump and his Cabinet, I am not afraid of you. [ Cheers and applause ]
HOLT: Now, Stephanie, this doesn't mean he can't be detained again.
GOSK: That's right. He still has to challenge his detention in that federal court in Vermont. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pursuing his deportation in immigration court, Lester.
HOLT: All right. Stephanie Gosk, thank you.