Mahmoud Khalil, recently released from an immigration detention center after 104 days, criticized Columbia University for its perceived hypocrisy regarding support for international students. Speaking outside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, he identified himself as a human rights defender, refugee, father, and Palestinian. Khalil, who was detained by ICE in Louisiana, shared harrowing experiences from his time in custody, highlighting the lack of privacy and emotional distress faced by detainees. He emphasized the motivating mantra he carved into his bunk, “I believe that we will win,” reflecting on his struggle for freedom.
Khalil’s case gained national attention against the backdrop of the Trump administration’s crackdown on pro-Palestinian activists following the October 7 terrorist attacks in Israel that killed over 1,200 people and ignited a devastating conflict in Gaza. He was a prominent figure in student protests at Columbia against the war. Despite the university’s publicly stated commitment to protecting its international students, Khalil noted a lack of support from the institution during his detention.
His release was ordered by a federal judge who concluded he did not pose a threat or flight risk, although the White House quickly appealed the decision. Khalil expressed gratitude for his release but cautioned that it marked only the beginning of a broader struggle for justice and Palestinian liberation. He urged students to continue advocating for what is right, citing historical parallels with past movements. Following the news conference, Khalil joined supporters in a march, underscoring the ongoing fight against repression of dissent.
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