Momodou Taal, a British-Gambian PhD student at Cornell University, has left the United States after facing potential deportation for his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests on campus. Taal announced his departure on social media, stating, “I took the decision to leave the United States, free and with my head held high.” He claimed federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel had revoked his visa.
Taal’s activism, which included leading a tent protest on campus urging the university to divest from companies supporting Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, drew attention from authorities. The Trump administration has sought to remove at least nine international students from the country due to activities it labels as antisemitic.
“Given what we have seen across the United States, I have lost faith that a favorable ruling from the courts would guarantee my personal safety and ability to express my beliefs,” Taal wrote in his statement. He warned others were also at risk and reaffirmed his support for Palestinians.
Taal’s case highlights the tension between university autonomy and government oversight. His supporters view his departure as a loss for academic freedom and a win for those pushing a hardline stance against pro-Palestinian voices.
The Trump administration has intensified efforts to deport international students involved in protests deemed adversarial to U.S. foreign policy. Critics argue this policy stifles free speech and targets immigrants unfairly. Other students affected include Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student detained by ICE, and Yunseo Chung, a legal permanent resident sought for removal.