Judge Denies Bid to Dismiss Columbia Student's Arrest Challenge

A federal judge has denied the Trump administration's request to dismiss the case of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student arrested by immigration agents for his participation in pro-Palestinian protests. U.S. District Judge Jesse Furman ruled that the case will be transferred to New Jersey, where Khalil was detained, citing a lack of jurisdiction in Manhattan. Khalil's lawyers argue that his arrest is a violation of his First Amendment rights, claiming he was targeted for advocating Palestinian rights. The case has become significant amid ongoing tensions regarding protests against Israel's military actions and the government's stance on deportations related to such activism. Khalil was arrested on March 8 and has had his green card canceled, with officials seeking his removal from the U.S. The situation highlights the complex intersection of immigration law, free speech, and political activism on U.S. college campuses.