A pro-Palestinian college student involved in last year’s protests in New York City has self-deported to Canada, as revealed by federal officials sharing surveillance footage of her rushing to catch a flight at LaGuardia Airport. This development coincides with federal officials contemplating terrorism charges against individuals who took part in the sit-ins and encampments that originated at Columbia University and spread nationwide. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the importance of upholding the privilege of living and studying in the U.S., highlighting the consequences for those advocating violence and terrorism.

The attention given by the Trump administration to the pro-Palestinian protests following the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and subsequent events is evident, with ICE detaining a student protest leader and another protester. Additionally, federal authorities have taken action against Columbia University, cutting research funding and demanding better protection for Jewish students. Amid accusations of Hamas alignment, the administration celebrated the ICE detention of protest leader Mahmoud Khalil.

The individual identified in the social media post, Ranjani Srinivasan, was on a valid student visa before her self-deportation. Her failure to disclose protest-related court summonses led to the revocation of her visa. Meanwhile, the arrest of activist Khalil has sparked protests, including the occupation of Trump Tower. Legal challenges are underway to contest Khalil’s detention and potential deportation, as well as disciplinary actions against student protesters at Columbia University.

In a related development, another pro-Palestinian student protester, Leqaa Kordia, was detained for overstaying her student visa. Her visa had been terminated earlier for non-compliance with university attendance requirements. The ongoing actions and legal battles surrounding these cases reflect the complex and contentious nature of the issues surrounding the protests and the individuals involved.