Palestinian Protester Released from ICE Custody After Over a Year

Leqaa Kordia was arrested for overstaying her student visa after participating in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:26am

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Leqaa Kordia, a 33-year-old Palestinian woman, has been released from an immigration detention center more than a year after she was arrested for overstaying her student visa following her participation in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University. Her lawyers argued that she had been targeted by the Trump administration for her activism, and an immigration judge has now ordered her release on $100,000 bond.

Why it matters

Kordia's case has brought renewed attention to concerns about the targeting of activists and protesters by immigration authorities. Her detention and the circumstances around it raise questions about the treatment of immigrants involved in political demonstrations.

The details

Kordia's visa was terminated in January 2022 for lack of attendance, according to the Department of Homeland Security. She was arrested in March 2025 and had been previously arrested during pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University. Federal lawyers fought the judge's prior rulings to keep her detained, despite the judge ordering her release on bond. Kordia experienced health issues, including fainting episodes and a seizure, during her detention.

  • Kordia's visa was terminated in January 2022.
  • Kordia was arrested in March 2025 for overstaying her student visa.
  • Kordia was previously arrested during pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University.
  • On Friday, an immigration judge ordered Kordia's release on $100,000 bond.
  • In February, Kordia suffered a seizure and was hospitalized for 72 hours with her legs chained to a hospital bed.

The players

Leqaa Kordia

A 33-year-old Palestinian woman who was arrested for overstaying her student visa after participating in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University.

Department of Homeland Security

The government agency that arrested Kordia and argued against her release from detention.

Immigration Judge

The judge who ordered Kordia's release on bond, despite the government's efforts to keep her detained.

Zorhan Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City who called for Kordia's case to be dropped during a conversation with President Donald Trump.

Hamzah Abushaban

Kordia's cousin, who expressed relief and gratitude at her release and said the past year has taken a toll on their family.

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What they’re saying

“Ms. Kordia has missed family gatherings and celebrations, has missed out on joining further, lawful protests, spent Ramadan in confinement twice, and was hospitalized for three days after suffering the first seizure of her life.”

— Rosy Fitzgerald, Spokesperson for the Institute for Middle East Understanding

“We are overwhelmed with relief and gratitude at the release of our beloved Leqaa Kordia. This past year has taken an unimaginable toll on Leqaa and our entire family. No family should have to endure what ours has experienced. Today, we celebrate Leqaa's return home. Tomorrow, we continue the fight for justice.”

— Hamzah Abushaban, Kordia's Cousin

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Leqaa Kordia to be released on the $100,000 bond.

The takeaway

Kordia's case highlights concerns about the treatment of immigrants involved in political activism and protests, as well as the broader debate around immigration enforcement and the rights of non-citizens in the United States.