World Immigration News

US court temporarily blocks effort to deport Gaza protest leader

Release Date: 2025-03-11
Media: BBC
Summary: The Trump administration attempted to deport pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate, who was arrested by ICE agents over the weekend. Khalil played a key role in last year’s Gaza war protests at Columbia. The arrest is part of Trump’s crackdown on pro-Palestinian protesters at U.S. universities, with Trump calling it "the first of many" to come.

Khalil, accused of leading activities linked to Hamas, had his student visa and green card revoked, though no specific evidence has been provided. His detention has been widely criticized, with his lawyer calling it a repression of political speech. Khalil is not facing any criminal charges. Protests have been held in New York City, demanding his release.

The Trump administration's actions are seen as part of a broader effort to target pro-Palestinian activism, and the administration has previously threatened to deport foreign students deemed "terrorist sympathizers." This case has drawn significant attention, with Columbia University and civil rights groups condemning the actions as an attack on free speech.
Tags: USA

Released on

Article Title