Columbia Grad Mahmoud Khalil Faces Deportation Over Pro-Palestinian Protests – What’s Next?

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A U.S. immigration judge has ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and legal permanent resident, can be deported over his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests. The controversial decision, citing a Cold War-era immigration law, has sparked outrage among civil rights groups, with Khalil’s legal team vowing to appeal.

Why Is Mahmoud Khalil Facing Deportation?

Khalil, a 30-year-old Palestinian activist, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 8, 2025, after participating in protests against the war in Gaza. Though he has not been charged with any crime, the Trump administration is seeking his removal under a 1952 law that allows deportation if an individual’s presence is deemed “adverse to U.S. foreign policy interests.”

• Government’s Argument: Officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, claim Khalil’s activism could “harass Jewish students” and threaten national interests.
• Khalil’s Defense: His lawyers argue he is being targeted for free speech, with no evidence of antisemitism or violence presented in court.

Court Ruling & Immediate Next Steps

The judge ruled that the government’s case was “facially reasonable”, allowing deportation proceedings to move forward. However:

• Khalil’s legal team has until April 23 to file an appeal.
• A separate federal lawsuit in New Jersey challenges his arrest as unconstitutional.
• The ACLU condemned the ruling as “pre-written”, citing a lack of substantial evidence.

Khalil’s Response: “This Process Lacked Due Process”

In a powerful statement after the ruling, Khalil told the court:

“You said nothing is more important than due process and fairness—yet neither was present today. This is why the Trump administration sent me 1,000 miles away from my family.”

Political Reactions

• Kristi Noem (DHS Secretary):
  

  “If you advocate violence, support terrorists, or harass Jews, your visa privilege should be revoked. Good riddance.”

• ACLU & Legal Team:
  

  “This is a dangerous attack on free speech. We will fight this unjust deportation.”

What Happens Now?

• Appeal Process: Khalil’s lawyers will challenge the ruling in higher courts.
• Federal Lawsuit: If successful, it could block deportation.
• Public Backlash: Advocacy groups are mobilizing support, framing this as a free speech vs. national security battle.

Final Thoughts

This case could set a major precedent for how the U.S. handles activism, immigration, and foreign policy concerns. As Khalil remains detained in Louisiana, his supporters—and critics—will be watching closely.

Stay tuned for updates as this legal battle unfolds.