Detention won’t stop me, I draw strength from Palestine’s struggle

Palestinian student and peace activist Mohsen Mahdawi spoke to Al Jazeera’s Kristen Saloomey about his US detention. He was arrested during a citizenship interview and believes it was a trap to deport him in isolation. Raised in the West Bank, Mahdawi says witnessing death and injustice shaped his commitment to activism. He supports non-violent resistance but defends the right of occupied people to resist under international law. Since October 7, he has lost over 30 relatives in Gaza and four cousins in the West Bank. Mahdawi told Trump and his cabinet he is not afraid, drawing strength from Palestinian resilience. His message to other students: never be afraid—hope and dignity are our greatest weapons.