Federal Judge Hears Mahmoud Khalil Deportation Case Amid Protests

Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and pro-Palestinian activist, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at his university-owned apartment, facing deportation due to alleged ties to Hamas through his activism. A federal judge has temporarily halted his deportation pending a hearing, which is set to address the government's claims that Khalil's actions align with terrorist activities, although no criminal charges have been filed against him. Khalil’s lawyers argue that his arrest is retaliatory, targeting his protected speech under the First Amendment, as he has not been formally accused of providing material support to Hamas. Protests erupted in New York City in response to his detention, emphasizing the political dimensions of the case. Khalil's wife, who is eight months pregnant, has publicly urged for his release to be present for the birth of their child. The situation has drawn attention to the administration's stance on immigration and political dissent, with President Trump warning of more deportations of individuals linked to similar protests.