Appeals Court Rules Against Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil Amid Controversial Deportation Efforts

A federal appeals panel reversed a lower court's decision to release Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and former Columbia University student, from immigration detention. The ruling supports the Trump administration's efforts to deport Khalil due to his pro-Palestinian activism, although a key constitutional issue remains unresolved.

A federal appeals panel delivered a setback to Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student, by reversing a lower court's decision that had freed him from immigration detention. The ruling marks a victory for the government, bringing it closer to deporting the Palestinian activist due to his pro-Palestinian campus activities.

Despite the decision, Khalil's potential immediate detention remains uncertain, pending further legal challenges. A 2-1 decision highlighted that federal law mandates the case to proceed through the immigration courts before Khalil can pursue a constitutional challenge against the deportation efforts driven by his activism.

Khalil, denying allegations linking him to Hamas, views his detention as retaliation for his free speech. While the appeals ruling complicates his legal battle, Khalil remains determined, with options including an appeal to the 3rd Circuit's active judges or the US Supreme Court.