Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and student activist, discusses his ongoing legal battle and uncertain future after a federal appeals court reversed a lower court decision that had previously released him from immigration detention (0:00-0:33). Khalil, a legal permanent resident with a green card, now faces the possibility of re-arrest and deportation, which has significantly impacted his family life (0:42-1:25).
Key points from the discussion include:
Personal Impact and Activism (7:36-8:22): Khalil expresses disappointment that a country he believed was the “land of the free” has targeted him for speaking out, but states he will continue to advocate for human rights with pride.
Video: Activist Mahmoud Khalil again faces uncertain future | Inside City Hall.
Legal Basis of Detention (1:49-2:00): The Trump administration cited a 1950s law, claiming the Secretary of State has the power to remove individuals whose presence is “contrary to foreign policy.”
Defense and Due Process (2:02-2:48): Khalil asserts his constitutional right to free speech and highlights that no crime has been accused, nor evidence of wrongdoing presented. He emphasizes the lack of due process, stating the court is currently only debating whether a federal court can even review his case.
Lawsuit Against the Administration (2:56-3:15): Khalil is suing the Trump administration for either $20 million or an apology, seeking accountability for what he describes as wrongful actions, loss of liberty, and damage to his reputation (3:35-3:46).
Refusal to Self-Deport (4:13-4:27): Despite a Department of Homeland Security statement suggesting he self-deport, Khalil, whose wife and son are American and who considers New York his home, plans to fight his case in court.
Connection to Broader Movements (4:52-6:12): Khalil views his case as a “blueprint” for the administration to target those they disagree with, starting with vulnerable groups like Palestinians, and sees a connection to wider movements against injustice.
Political Support (6:30-7:15): He acknowledges the support of Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Representative Jerry Nadler, and calls on Democratic Party leadership to do more to defend free speech and due process rights.
Sources: NY1 Spectrum News Video, Big New York news BigNY.com
U.S. Department of Homeland Security : The Facts on Those Who Have Abused The Privilege of a Student Visa : Mahmoud Khalil – “The Activist Leader at Columbia”
- Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student from Syria, is one of the ringleaders of the vicious, anti-American, anti-Semitic protests at Columbia University. His activities are aligned with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
- On March 9, 2025, in support of President Trump’s executive orders prohibiting anti-Semitism, and in coordination with the Department of State, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Khalil.
- But upon his arrest, radical student protesters at Columbia and across the country have attempted to turn him into a martyr, waving signs and banners bearing his likeness.
- Taking over private buildings, inciting violence, harassing Jewish students, defacing buildings, and passing out terrorist propaganda do not constitute free speech.
- A judge ruled that Khalil’s deportation can move forward. He will be removed from our country
Source: dhs.gov/news/2025/04/30/100-days-fighting-fake-news
