Federal Judge Orders Release of Mahmoud Khalil from Immigration Custody

A federal judge has ordered the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, from immigration custody. Khalil had been detained by immigration authorities since March 8. Government attorney Dhruman Sampat argued that the executive branch has broad authority to determine removals from the country, suggesting that courts should not interfere. However, U.S. District Court Judge Michael Farbiarz stated during the hearing that there is a strong and uncontested record indicating that Khalil is neither a flight risk nor a danger to the public. Judge Farbiarz exercised his discretion to order Khalil's release. The judge declined the government's request for a seven-day stay on the order. It was not immediately clear when Khalil would be released from the detention center in Jena, Louisiana. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 to justify Khalil’s removal, arguing he poses a national security risk. Khalil's supporters contend that the government's actions aim to suppress free speech on college campuses and silence critics of Israel's military actions in Gaza.