Overview

• Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian and permanent U.S. resident living in Vermont since 2014, was detained by ICE during a citizenship interview on April 14, 2025.
• A memo by Secretary of State Marco Rubio claims Mahdawi's activism undermines U.S. foreign policy and peace efforts in Gaza, though his lawyers dispute the allegations and demand evidence.
• Federal Judge William K. Sessions III has barred Mahdawi's removal from Vermont while his habeas petition is under review.
• Protests have erupted in Vermont and New York, with bipartisan political figures, including Vermont's congressional delegation and Governor Phil Scott, condemning the detention.
• Supporters describe Mahdawi as a peace advocate committed to interfaith dialogue, with community leaders emphasizing his nonviolent philosophy and local contributions.