Palestinian Woman Released from U.S. Immigration Detention After One Year in Custody
Leqaa Kordia, a 33-year-old Palestinian woman residing in New Jersey since 2016, was released from U.S. immigration detention in Texas on Monday after one year in custody. She was the last individual remaining in detention following the Trump administration's 2025 enforcement actions against pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses.
Kordia was the last individual remaining in detention following the Trump administration's 2025 enforcement actions against pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses.
Kordia was released on a $100,000 bond. An immigration judge had ordered her release on bond three times; the government challenged the first two rulings but did not challenge the third.
Links to Activism and Initial Arrest
Her detention was linked to her participation in a 2024 protest outside Columbia University. Kordia was among approximately 100 people arrested by city police at that protest, though charges against her were dismissed.
Information about her arrest was later provided to the Trump administration by the New York City Police Department, citing a money laundering investigation.
Visa Overstay and Scrutiny of Payments
Kordia was arrested on March 13, 2025, during a routine check-in with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in New Jersey. Federal officials accused her of overstaying her visa and scrutinized payments she sent to relatives in the Middle East.
Kordia stated the money was intended to assist family members experiencing difficulties during the war. Tricia McLaughlin, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, had stated Kordia provided "financial support to individuals living in nations hostile to the U.S."
The DHS reiterated on Monday that Kordia was "in the country illegally after violating the terms of her visa" and stated the Trump administration "will continue to fight for the arrest, detention, and removal of aliens who have no right to be in this country."
An immigration judge found "overwhelming evidence" supporting Kordia's explanation of the payments.
Health Concerns During Custody
Kordia recently experienced a seizure and was hospitalized for three days. Her attorneys cited a neurological condition that reportedly worsened during her custody and stated she did not pose a flight risk.
Immigration Judge Tara Naslow stated she found extensive evidence from the respondent and limited evidence from the government.
Mayoral Intervention
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani commented on Kordia's release, stating he had requested it during a meeting with President Donald Trump.