ALVARADO, Texas (AP) — Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian advocate whose detention became emblematic of the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration for those participating in pro-Palestinian protests, was released on a $100,000 bond after a year-long struggle in custody.
Kordia, residing in New Jersey since 2016, was arrested last March during protests against U.S. support for actions in Gaza, resulting in her detention in Texas. I don’t know what to say. I’m free! I’m free! she exclaimed upon her release.
The U.S. government had challenged her release multiple times, but on her third bond request, it did not contest the immigration judge's ruling, allowing her to finally go home.
Her situation drew attention after Kordia was hospitalized for three days following a seizure in detention. The year of confinement took a significant toll on her health and well-being, as expressed by her cousin, who shared the family's relief at her release.
Reflecting on her year in detention, Kordia emphasized her resolve to continue fighting for detainees who remain in such conditions. There is a lot of injustice in this place, she stated, underscoring the plight of individuals wrongfully detained.
Kordia's legal situation stemmed from participation in protests where she was charged with offenses that were later dismissed. Her arrest was part of a broader wave of detentions targeting critics of Israeli policies, particularly after a significant escalation in violence in Gaza.
The case also illustrates the contentious intersection of immigration enforcement and political activism, particularly concerning actions aimed at those connected to foreign conflicts.
Upon her release, Kordia expressed eagerness to reunite with her mother, whom she had not been able to see during this time, while also expressing her commitment to continue advocating on behalf of those who are still detained.
