Federal judge will order Mahmoud Khalil released from immigration detention

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia graduate, is set to be released from immigration detention following a ruling by federal judge Michael Farbiarz in New Jersey. Khalil’s lawyers had requested his immediate release on bail from a Louisiana jail or transfer to New Jersey to be closer to his wife and newborn son.

Khalil’s detention stemmed from his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, the first arrest under President Donald Trump’s crackdown on students involved in such protests. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for Khalil’s expulsion, citing concerns about potential harm to American foreign policy.

Despite allegations that Khalil lied on his green card application, he maintains his innocence. The judge had previously ruled that Khalil could be detained based on the secretary of state’s determination of potential harm to U.S. foreign policy.

Khalil, a legal U.S. resident, was taken into custody in March at his Manhattan apartment building. His lawyers argue that the Trump administration is targeting him for his involvement in free speech activities rather than any criminal behavior during the protests at Columbia University.

As a graduate student in international affairs, Khalil played a key role in negotiating and advocating for student activists. While he was not among those arrested during the demonstrations, his visibility in the media made him a target for criticism.

The Trump administration’s stance on expelling noncitizens involved in pro-Palestinian activities has raised concerns about freedom of speech and allegations of antisemitism.

This story is ongoing, with updates expected. Stay tuned for further developments on Mahmoud Khalil’s case.