A U.S. federal judge has extended the prohibition on deporting Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and former Columbia University graduate student, who was arrested by immigration authorities earlier this month. U.S. District Judge Jesse Furman initially issued a temporary block on Khalil’s deportation and extended this order on Wednesday to allow more time to consider the constitutional implications of the arrest.
Khalil, a legal permanent resident, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at his university-owned apartment in Manhattan on March 8, 2025. The Department of Homeland Security alleges that Khalil led activities aligned with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, citing his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University.
His arrest has sparked widespread criticism from civil rights organizations, legal experts, and political figures, who argue that the detention infringes upon Khalil’s First Amendment rights and represents a retaliatory action against his activism. Protests demanding his release have taken place in New York City, and an online petition has garnered nearly two million signatures.
Khalil’s wife, Noor Abdalla, who is eight months pregnant, expressed her concern over his detention, emphasizing his dedication to activism and community support. She hopes for his release before the birth of their child.
The case continues to unfold as legal proceedings address the constitutionality of Khalil’s arrest and potential deportation.
