A federal judge has blocked ICE from detaining Columbia University student Yunseo Chung, following her lawsuit against the Trump administration for targeting her due to her participation in pro-Palestinian protests. Chung’s attorneys argue her deportation attempts infringe upon her First Amendment rights. The legal battle highlights broader implications for free speech and immigration enforcement amid rising tensions surrounding anti-Israel protests.

A federal judge has intervened in the case of Yunseo Chung, a Columbia University student involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, by issuing a restraining order that halts Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from attempting to arrest her. This decision came from U.S. District Judge Naomi Buchwald shortly after Chung filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump and members of his administration.

Chung, who has resided in the United States since the age of seven, contends that the government’s actions represent an “unjustifiable assault on First Amendment rights.” According to her lawsuit, she simply participated as a member of a large group of students voicing collective concerns regarding the Gaza conflict without leading protests or engaging prominently in their activities.

The lawsuit specifies that Chung did not face any arrests or disciplinary actions linked to her attendance at a Gaza Solidarity Encampment on campus. However, she was arrested during a separate protest at Barnard College in 2025. The lawsuit claims this is a routine occurrence, as many protesters are subject to arrest, with resulting charges often dropped.

An ICE official reportedly issued an administrative arrest warrant for Chung on March 8, leading to attempts of arrest by federal authorities at her parents’ home the following day. It has been alleged that Chung’s green card was subsequently revoked, as outlined by an ICE representative. Although ICE contends that they can rescind permanent resident status on grounds of immigration law violations, her attorneys maintain that there has been no valid justification for such actions.

Law enforcement is said to have conducted a search of Chung’s dorm room under a warrant two days later. Additionally, a representative from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) commented on her case, noting that Chung is sought for removal proceedings based on perceived concerning conduct during protests.

Chung’s situation aligns with that of another student, Mahmoud Khalil, who is also facing deportation after being arrested by ICE due to his involvement in anti-Israel protests. The Trump administration has labeled actions of both Chung and Khalil as supportive of Hamas, which poses significant implications for their immigration status.

A DHS spokesperson highlighted that ICE investigations regarding activities related to Hamas could lead to visa revocation and other immigration actions, dependent on determinations by the Department of State. Fox News Digital has provided coverage of the ongoing developments surrounding these cases.

In conclusion, the recent legal developments surrounding Yunseo Chung demonstrate a critical intersection of immigration enforcement and First Amendment rights. The federal judge’s order to halt Chung’s arrest underscores significant legal challenges that arise from actions taken by law enforcement against individuals participating in protests. As similar cases emerge, the implications for free speech and immigration law continue to unfold, warranting close attention from legal experts and advocates alike.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com

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