Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil freed from detention after judge’s ruling

Mahmoud Khalil, an anti-Israel activist and former Columbia University graduate student, was released on bail from an immigration detention center on Friday following a judge’s order. Khalil, who left a federal facility in Louisiana, is expected to head to New York where his wife and baby live. He must notify the Department of Homeland Security of his address within 48 hours of arriving in New York.

U.S. District Judge Michael Farbiarz emphasized that holding a legal U.S. resident like Khalil, who does not appear to be a flight risk and is not accused of violent offenses, would be highly unusual. Farbiarz stated, “Petitioner is not a flight risk and the evidence presented is that he is not a danger to the community. Period, full stop.”

Khalil’s attorneys argued that his imprisonment at the detention center in Louisiana was unconstitutional retaliation for his pro-Palestinian activism on campus at Columbia University. An immigration judge had ruled that Khalil could be removed from the country based on a memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, citing Khalil’s campus protests as being against U.S. foreign policy interests. However, Farbiarz later enjoined the secretary from using that determination to deport Khalil.

The Department of Homeland Security also alleged that Khalil omitted important information from his green card application regarding his affiliations with groups like the Columbia University Apartheid Divest. Despite this, Khalil has been granted his green card and will be allowed to travel to various locations for court appearances and lobbying.

Khalil’s case has garnered attention from anti-Israel protesters and immigration rights advocates who argue that the Trump administration is targeting him for his opposition to the Israeli government and infringing on free speech rights. The administration is appealing the preliminary injunction and Khalil’s release to the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals.

In conclusion, Khalil’s release marks a significant development in his legal battle, with supporters viewing it as a victory for free speech and activism. The ongoing appeals process will continue to be closely watched by those concerned about the intersection of immigration policy and political activism.