A Palestinian woman who was detained during Gaza war protests at Columbia University has been released after a year in immigration detention in Texas, her lawyers say.
Leqaa Kordia, 33, was among more than 100 demonstrators arrested outside the New York City college's campus in April 2024. She was arrested again in March 2025 during a routine immigration check-in. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) alleged she had overstayed her student visa, which was terminated in 2022 for lack of attendance.
Federal officials launched an investigation into funds she sent overseas, which she stated was for her family. Notably, she has not been charged with any crimes.
I don't know what to say. I'm free! I'm free! Finally, after one year, Kordia exclaimed to reporters upon her release from the detention center near Dallas.
Despite DHS's claim that she was in the country illegally, an immigration judge ruled that the case against Kordia was weak, highlighting her honesty regarding the funds she sent home. Kordia can now return to New Jersey as her legal battle continues.
The release follows condemnation from advocates who argue that Kordia was targeted for her vocal stance on Palestinian rights. Her cousin expressed relief and gratitude for the community support throughout the ordeal, emphasizing the toll the past year has taken on their family.
These detentions occurred amid a larger crackdown on international student protesters during the Trump administration, igniting discussions on free speech and immigrant rights in the U.S.
