US Judge Approves Deportation of Columbia Graduate Mahmoud Khalil Amid Protests

Mahmoud Khalil faces deportation as a US judge rules in favor of the Trump administration’s case against him, citing foreign policy risks. Khalil, who maintains his non-violent activism is unjustly targeted, plans to appeal.

A judge in the United States has ruled in favor of the Trump administration, allowing the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate of Columbia University. Detained last month, Khalil's activism in pro-Palestinian protests has led to his current legal troubles, despite him being a permanent legal resident with no formal charges against him.

The ruling follows Khalil's arrest last month, which he claims was a direct consequence of advocating for Palestinian rights. The government is using a Cold War-era immigration statute to argue that his presence could be detrimental to American foreign policy interests. However, the judge's order does not lead to immediate deportation; Khalil’s legal team has until April 23 to file an appeal against the decision.

Khalil, age 30, emerged as a vocal figure during last year's protests against the Gaza conflict at Columbia. Citing a 1952 immigration law, the administration has justified its deportation efforts, suggesting Khalil poses "adverse foreign policy consequences" for the United States. After the ruling, Khalil criticized the process, asserting that it lacked fundamental fairness and due process, and stressed that he was being targeted far from his family.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) referred to the ruling as "pre-written," noting the swift submission of government evidence, which comprised merely a letter from Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirming that Khalil had not committed any crimes. Officials contend the deportation aims to safeguard Jewish students from intimidation, despite Khalil’s actions being legal.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem backed the judge’s ruling on social media, declaring that anyone advocating violence or supporting terrorism should not remain in the country. Khalil’s legal team has vehemently denied allegations of antisemitism and emphasized the absence of concrete evidence against him.

Khalil has also launched a federal court lawsuit in New Jersey, contending his arrest was unconstitutional, with hopes that a favorable outcome could prevent his deportation. Additionally, the Trump administration alleges immigration fraud related to his green card application, claiming he failed to disclose his work with the British embassy and the United Nations agency focused on Palestinian refugees, though no new evidence has been presented.

A spokesperson for the White House reaffirmed the administration's focus on enforcing immigration laws to remove individuals deemed a threat to national interests. Khalil’s legal team indicates that further hearings will address the matter, with their client feeling optimistic about the support and actions being taken on his behalf.