Federal Judge Blocks Deportation of Pro-Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil

A federal judge has temporarily halted the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student and activist from Columbia University, who was arrested by ICE agents as part of the Trump administration's crackdown on anti-Israel protests. Khalil, who holds lawful permanent residency, was detained in Louisiana after his arrest at his apartment in New York City. President Trump has characterized Khalil's activism as 'pro-terrorist' and warned that this is just the beginning of a broader campaign against student protesters. Khalil's case has sparked significant backlash, with many arguing that his detention violates free speech rights, while politicians like Rep. Rashida Tlaib have condemned the government's actions as unconstitutional. The case is set for further court proceedings, with Khalil's lawyers arguing for his return to New York and access to legal counsel. Supporters have mobilized protests and petitions demanding his release, framing his arrest as part of a larger pattern of political repression against pro-Palestinian activists.