Arabic version: إطلاق سراح لقاء كردية بعد عام من الاحتجاز في الهجرة

Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman who participated in pro-Palestine demonstrations, has been released from immigration detention in the United States after a year in custody. Kordia, 33, was detained in Texas since March 2026, following her involvement in protests at Columbia University in 2024. According to Al Jazeera, she expressed her joy upon release, stating, “I’m free! I’m free! Finally, after one year.”

Kordia was granted release on a $100,000 bond after an immigration judge ruled in her favor for the third time. Previous rulings had been challenged by immigration officials. Following her release, Kordia expressed her eagerness to reunite with her mother and her commitment to advocating for others still detained, highlighting the injustices within the immigration system.

During her detention, Kordia experienced significant health issues, including a seizure that required hospitalization. Her lawyers argued that her neurological condition had deteriorated while in custody, increasing the risk of further seizures. The judge, Tara Naslow, acknowledged the lack of substantial evidence from the government against Kordia, leading to her eventual release.

Kordia’s case drew attention as she was the last among several protesters targeted by immigration officials for their participation in the pro-Palestine demonstrations. Her release marks a significant moment for advocates calling for justice and reform within the immigration detention system.