Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, has been released on bail after spending more than three months in U.S. immigration detention a detention that sparked national protests and international concern over free speech and human rights. Arrested on March 8, 2025, during a high-profile crackdown on pro-Palestinian student activism, Khalil’s case has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over the intersection of U.S. immigration policy, civil liberties, and foreign affairs.
Khalil, 30, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under controversial circumstances while actively participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia University. The Trump administration, which has maintained a hardline stance on immigration and Middle East policy, accused Khalil of conduct “detrimental to American foreign policy interests” despite no criminal charges being filed against him.
A federal judge in New Jersey, Michael Farbiarz, ordered his release on June 21, 2025, ruling that the government’s justification for detaining him was likely unconstitutional. Judge Farbiarz expressed concern that Khalil’s arrest appeared to be politically motivated and a misuse of immigration law to punish him for lawful protest activity. The court found no evidence that Khalil posed a flight risk or threat to public safety.
Khalil’s 104-day detention was marked by intense personal hardship. He missed the birth of his first child and was only allowed to see his newborn son, Deen, for one hour under government-imposed restrictions. Upon his release from Louisiana and ahead of his return to New York, Khalil told reporters, “Now I can actually hug him and Noor, my wife, without looking at the clock.”
Khalil’s wife, Dr. Noor Abdalla, had accepted his diploma at Columbia University’s graduation ceremony in his absence, a symbolic moment that galvanized student protests across the country. His arrest, captured on video and widely circulated, fueled demonstrations in New York, Washington D.C., and on numerous university campuses.
Despite his release, Khalil still faces potential deportation. The Trump administration has appealed the ruling and shifted the legal grounds of its case, now accusing Khalil of failing to disclose certain information during his 2024 green card application process. Critics argue that this is a politically driven afterthought meant to justify an already questionable detention.
White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended the administration’s actions, saying Khalil had engaged in “fraud and misrepresentation” and posed foreign policy risks. However, civil liberties advocates contend the government’s tactics are a violation of Khalil’s constitutional rights.
“There’s no right person that should be detained for protesting a genocide,” Khalil said, referring to his criticism of Israeli military actions in Gaza. He refrained from directly naming Israel or making religious references but remained firm in his political stance.
His legal team, including attorneys from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and New York University’s Immigrant Rights Clinic, argue that Khalil was detained solely for exercising his right to protest. “No one should fear being jailed for speaking out in this country,” said Alina Das, co-director of the clinic.
Under the terms of his release, Khalil will retain certified copies of his passport and green card, but his physical passport will be held by the government. He is barred from international travel but permitted to travel within New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Louisiana, and Washington, D.C., for court proceedings and advocacy purposes.
Khalil’s case continues to draw attention as a test of free speech and due process in a politically charged climate. His attorneys are preparing for what could be a lengthy legal battle, while activists nationwide celebrate his temporary return to freedom.
“This is not just a personal victory,” said Dr. Noor Abdalla. “It is a reminder that voices of conscience cannot be silenced even when governments try their hardest.”
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