In New York, the legal team of Mahmoud Khalil, a recent graduate student from Columbia University, has filed an amended habeas petition and complaint with the federal court in the Southern District of New York. This action challenges his detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Khalil was arrested last Saturday under the Trump administration, which his legal representatives argue was done illegally and in retaliation for his advocacy supporting Palestinian rights.
The situation escalated when Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This provision allows for deportation if there are “reasonable grounds” to believe someone's presence might have serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States. The White House seeks to revoke Khalil's green card due to his organization of protests, distribution of flyers, and role as lead negotiator at Gaza solidarity encampments at Columbia. Notably, Khalil has not been charged with any crime.
Khalil's legal defense includes Amy Greer from Dratel & Lewis, along with support from the Center for Constitutional Rights and CLEAR. Emergency filings over the weekend led to a court order preventing his deportation while proceedings continue. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) have also joined in his defense. They argue that his detention violates constitutional rights such as free speech and due process.
Amy Greer stated: “Mahmoud Khalil’s arrest and detention is an escalation of the U.S. Government’s continual efforts to suppress...the First Amendment of our nation’s Constitution.”
Ramzi Kassem expressed concern: “What happened to Mahmoud is nothing short of extraordinary...it won’t fly in the court of public opinion.”
Brett Max Kaufman added: “This is a clear attempt by President Trump to make an example out of Mr. Khalil...for their political opinions.”
Baher Azmy commented on broader implications: “The Trump administration has been targeting Palestinian human rights activists...intolerable to a democracy.”
Donna Lieberman emphasized constitutional protections: “With today’s filing, we are making it crystal clear that no president can arrest...dissent is not grounds for deportation.”
Further details on this case can be found in the amended complaint available online.
