Overview

• Momodou Taal, a Cornell University doctoral student, voluntarily left the U.S. after his visa was revoked over his participation in pro-Palestinian protests.
• A federal judge rejected Taal's request to block deportation and halt enforcement of executive orders targeting foreign activists involved in similar demonstrations.
• Taal cited fears of detention and threats to his personal safety as reasons for leaving, stating he no longer trusted the courts to protect his rights.
• The Trump administration has defended its crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism, revoking over 300 visas and accusing activists of supporting Hamas and antisemitism.
• Critics argue the policies conflate criticism of Israel with support for terrorism, raising concerns about free speech and civil liberties.