After 104 days in immigration custody, Mahmoud Khalil — a Columbia University graduate and pro-Palestinian activist — is back on the East Coast.
Khalil, a legal permanent resident, was arrested during the Trump administration’s crackdown on student protests.
On June 21, 2025, he walked out of Newark Liberty International Airport with his fist raised, joined by his wife and a member of Congress. His release came just one day after a federal judge granted him bail following months of legal battles.
Why was Khalil detained?
Khalil became known after taking part in the Gaza protests at Columbia in spring 2024. His arrest drew widespread attention and raised serious concerns about whether a US permanent resident could be detained — and nearly deported — for participating in a political demonstration.
Trump officials defended the arrest on national security grounds, claiming Khalil’s activism promoted antisemitism. His lawyers argued the real reason was retaliation for political speech protected under the First Amendment. On June 20, a federal judge agreed with that view and blocked the government from detaining or deporting him. Khalil was released the next day.
Deportation used to target protesters
Born in Syria, Khalil was one of the first arrested under President Trump’s promise to target student activists accused of “un-American activity.” The administration publicly linked pro-Palestinian demonstrators to Hamas, calling Khalil’s arrest “the first of many to come.”
His legal team insists that protesting is not a crime — and that trying to remove him sends a chilling message to students across the country. The case drew national attention, especially after video of his arrest circulated widely. While detained, Khalil missed the birth of his first child.
Two separate charges
Khalil was arrested in New York on March 8 and held in Louisiana for over three months. The government initially cited a rarely used section of the Immigration and Nationality Act, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio claiming that Khalil’s presence could harm US foreign policy.
But US District Judge Michael Farbiarz ruled in June that the arrest likely violated the Constitution. He stated that lawful permanent residents cannot be detained or deported based on vague foreign policy concerns, especially when tied to political expression.
The government later changed course, accusing Khalil of failing to disclose information on his 2024 green card application. Despite the new claim, Judge Farbiarz ordered his release on bail. The Trump administration has said it will appeal, arguing the court overstepped its authority.
During his 104-day detention in Louisiana, Khalil missed his graduation and the birth of his son. Protests erupted across campuses, including sit-ins at Trump Tower. Upon release, a hero’s welcome awaited him in New Jersey.
Legal community responds
Immigration and deportation attorneys in New York have spoken out in support of Khalil, calling his case a direct attack on free speech and student protest. His legal team continues to push for protections not only for him but also for others facing similar threats of detention or deportation tied to political activism.
Why this case matters
Khalil’s story is a sharp reminder that political speech — even protected speech — can carry consequences when immigration law is used as a tool of retaliation.
Any experienced deportation attorney in New York will tell you that the First Amendment applies to permanent residents, and deporting someone for their beliefs violates those protections. The Constitution guarantees the right to free speech regardless of immigration status. This means that the government cannot use political views or peaceful protest as a reason to detain or deport someone. Doing so sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the legal protections that apply to everyone living under US law.
Cases like Khalil’s test the limits of those rights and show how immigration enforcement can be misused to silence dissent. It has caused fear among immigrant communities and raised alarm among civil rights advocates.
If you’re facing deportation
If you’re being targeted for political speech or are at risk of deportation, the team at Berd & Klauss, PLLC can help. We represent individuals in complex removal cases and fight to protect your rights under US law.
We are a full-service immigration firm in New York. Our attorneys handle deportation and removal defense, green cards, visas, citizenship, and business immigration. If you’re facing serious immigration issues, we’re ready to step in.
Call 212-461-7152 or email info@berdklauss.com to schedule a free consultation with a deportation attorney in New York.