Columbia University student Ellie Aghayeva was released by U.S. federal immigration authorities on Thursday, hours after being detained in her university residence. The 22-year-old senior, who studies neuroscience and politics and hails from Azerbaijan, was reportedly not involved in any of the recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus. Her detention triggered protests and raised concerns over federal agents allegedly posing as police officers to enter the residence.

Aghayeva was taken into custody early Thursday morning by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Reports suggested that agents gained entry to her dorm under the pretext of searching for a missing child, prompting criticism from students and faculty about the methods used by federal authorities. The arrest quickly became a flashpoint on campus, intensifying debates over immigration enforcement at educational institutions.

The situation shifted dramatically following an intervention by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. During an unrelated meeting with President Donald Trump, Mamdani raised concerns about Aghayeva’s detention. Shortly after the discussion, the federal government reversed its decision, allowing her to leave custody later that day. Mamdani confirmed the outcome via a social media post, noting that Trump had agreed to her immediate release.

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In a statement on Instagram, Aghayeva reassured followers, writing, “I am safe and okay.” The student’s family and supporters expressed relief at her release, emphasising that she had no involvement in political protests that had recently occurred on campus. Columbia University officials have refrained from making a formal comment, citing student privacy concerns.

The incident has reignited national discussions on the role of ICE in educational settings and the extent to which federal agents can enter university-owned properties. Advocates for students’ rights criticised the tactics used in the detention, while federal authorities described the operation as part of standard enforcement protocols. Legal experts highlighted the unusual nature of the rapid reversal following direct political intervention.

Aghayeva’s release underscores the delicate balance between federal immigration enforcement and the rights of students at US universities. The episode has prompted Columbia University to review campus security measures and federal protocols, while also amplifying broader debates about immigration policy, civil liberties, and the responsibilities of local and federal officials in sensitive cases.

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