ALVARADO, Texas (AP) — In a significant development, Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman who was the last detainee following a crackdown on pro-Palestinian activists under the Trump administration, was released from immigration detention on a $100,000 bond after a year of incarceration. Kordia, 33, who has been in the U.S. since 2016 and lives in New Jersey, was detained at a facility in Texas since March 2025, following her arrest during protests at Columbia University the previous year.
Upon her release, Kordia expressed overwhelming joy, exclaiming, 'I don’t know what to say. I’m free! I’m free! Finally, after one year.' Her release was ordered by an immigration judge after multiple attempts were challenged by the government.
Kordia had faced serious health challenges during her detention, including hospitalization after experiencing a seizure. Her cousin, Hamzah Abushaban, shared their relief and gratitude for her release, stating, 'This past year has taken an unimaginable toll on Leqaa and our entire family.'
As she returns home, Kordia looks forward to reuniting with her mother and remains committed to fighting for all those still imprisoned under similar circumstances, declaring, 'There is a lot of injustice in this place.' She participated in the protests in memory of family members lost during the conflict in Gaza, believing it was her way to help those affected.
Despite the charges against her being dismissed and sealed, Kordia’s arrest was part of a broader effort by federal authorities targeting noncitizens speaking out against policies relating to Israel's military actions in Gaza. Kordia, who was accused by officials of visa overstays related to her financial support for her family overseas, has consistently stated these payments were crucial amidst the ongoing conflicts. An immigration judge acknowledged considerable evidence supporting Kordia's claims.
Her case sheds light on the complex intersections of immigration enforcement, advocacy, and activism in a larger political context.
