The Trump administration has filed new allegations against Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student detained for his pro-Palestinian activism, including claims that he failed to disclose information on his permanent residency application. Khalil, a green card holder from Syria and Algeria, allegedly did not disclose memberships in organizations and employment at the British Embassy in Beirut. The government argues that Khalil’s First Amendment claims are invalid due to the alleged misrepresentation on his application.
Khalil was arrested by ICE in March under a provision in immigration law stating his deportation could have negative foreign policy consequences for the U.S. He has been detained in Louisiana and is facing a separate deportation case. His lawyers argue that Khalil is being targeted for his free speech supporting Palestine, not due to actual ties to Hamas as claimed by the administration.
A federal judge in New York has temporarily halted Khalil’s deportation and ordered his habeas petition to continue in New Jersey. The Trump administration, in a filing in New Jersey, argued that the state lacked jurisdiction and emphasized Khalil’s alleged lack of disclosures in his residency application. Khalil’s lawyers continue to fight his case, claiming that he is being punished for constitutionally protected speech.
Columbia University has become a focal point for protests supporting Palestine, with student and faculty groups demanding protection for pro-Palestinian activists and reinstatement of all students disciplined for their activism. The case against Khalil has garnered attention for potentially violating his constitutional rights and targeting him for his beliefs.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
