After spending 104 days in federal detention, Mahmoud Khalil was released on Friday following a court ruling that challenged the basis for his arrest. The Syrian-born activist and former Columbia University student had faced immigration charges since March 8. Those charges, filed during the Trump administration, accused him of having ties to Hamas. Critics believe the arrest targeted his role as a vocal pro-Palestinian protester on campus.
Standing outside the La Salle Detention Facility, Khalil spoke to reporters. He said he left behind more than a thousand detainees and called the facility a symbol of systemic racism in U.S. immigration enforcement. He expressed hope that the detention centre would one day become a museum to document those injustices. His first goal after release was simple: to return to New York and spend time with his wife and newborn son.
Khalil missed his son’s birth in April. During his detention, he was allowed only one hour to visit his wife and child. Now free, he said he could finally hug them without checking the clock. He described this moment as both emotional and empowering.
Judge Michael Farbiarz, appointed by President Biden, ordered Khalil’s release. The judge raised concerns that the government may have used immigration law to punish Khalil for his campus protests. He emphasized that the Constitution prohibits such retaliation. According to Farbiarz, Khalil posed no threat to the community and had no record of violence.
The Department of Homeland Security pushed back against the decision. Spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said only an immigration judge—not a district judge—should rule on cases like this. She criticized the court for bypassing immigration procedures and accused the judiciary of undermining national security. DHS insisted that Khalil’s visa issues remained valid grounds for deportation. The agency also confirmed plans to appeal the release ruling.
Despite the legal uncertainty, Khalil maintained a hopeful tone. He condemned Columbia University for its alleged financial ties to actions against Palestinians and criticized the conditions he faced during detention. He rejected claims that he was dangerous and declared, “No one is illegal—no human is illegal.” His wife, Dr. Noor Abdalla, welcomed the ruling and said they would focus on rebuilding their life. She acknowledged that many injustices remained unresolved but expressed gratitude that Mahmoud Khalil was released and reunited with his family.
The case now moves to a higher court as federal officials seek to deport Khalil on claims of incorrect residency documentation and undisclosed work history. Still, Khalil’s supporters argue the charges are politically motivated and do not reflect any actual threat. Many believe the outcome could influence how future cases involving activism and immigration are handled in the U.S.
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