US DOJ Defies Judge Orders, Continues Detention of Activist Khalil

Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and pro-Palestinian activist, remains detained by the Trump administration despite a federal judge's order for his release, which found that detaining him based on U.S. foreign policy interests was unjustified. The administration has shifted its legal basis for detention, alleging Khalil provided false information on his green card application, a claim Khalil and his lawyers deny. Judge Michael Farbiarz set multiple deadlines for the government to appeal his ruling, which the administration has missed, prompting calls from Khalil's legal team and advocacy groups for his immediate release. Khalil has lawful permanent residency and has not been charged with a crime, but the Trump administration is using provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act to justify deportations of individuals it deems a threat to U.S. foreign relations. The case has been moved between courts and detention centers, reflecting ongoing legal battles and political tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and protests related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. The situation continues to develop as the government defies court orders and awaits further judicial response.