Judge Blocks Deportation of Pro-Hamas Protest Organizer Mahmoud Khalil

A federal judge has temporarily halted the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Hamas disturber of the peace and former Columbia University student, following his arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Khalil, who holds a green card, has been a prominent figure in organizing anti-Israel protests on campus, some of which escalated into illegal activities.​

Khalil’s involvement in these protests included leading the occupation of campus buildings, such as the Milstein Library at Barnard College, Columbia’s affiliated women’s institution. On March 5, approximately 200 masked students, with Khalil among them, took over the library, distributing pamphlets that praised the Hamas terror attacks of October 7, 2023.This action disrupted university operations and raised significant security concerns. ​

Prior to this, Khalil served as the lead negotiator for Columbia United Apartheid Divest (CUAD), a group known for its radical stance and sympathy towards organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah. Under his leadership, CUAD organized numerous anti-Israel protests, some of which resulted in violence and property damage. ​

The Trump administration has taken a firm stance against such activities. President Trump highlighted Khalil’s arrest as part of broader efforts to combat anti-Israel demonstrators supporting Hamas, stating it was the “first arrest of many to come.” The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) alleged that Khalil was involved in activities aligned with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. ​

However, Khalil’s legal team argues that his detention violates his constitutional rights, emphasizing his status as a lawful permanent resident with no prior criminal charges. Civil rights organizations have also expressed concern, suggesting that the government’s actions may infringe upon First Amendment rights. ​