NEW YORK (Echosphere News) — Mahmoud Khalil appeared Tuesday in a federal appeals court as he challenges a deportation case linked to his pro-Palestinian activism at Columbia University.
The hearing before the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals coincides with the government's efforts to reverse a lower court ruling that allowed Khalil's release from a Louisiana immigration detention center in June.
Khalil's defense team argued that the district court's decision should stand, which currently keeps federal authorities from detaining him again to commence the deportation process.
Drew Ensign, representing the government, claimed that the previous ruling exceeded judicial authority and should be revisited by the immigration judge in Louisiana. “The situation is being addressed in an unconventional forum,” Ensign insisted.
Last month, an immigration judge had ruled that Khalil could face deportation, but this decision is still pending review by an appeals board.
Married to a U.S. citizen, Khalil intends to persist in advocating for Palestinian rights while his legal ordeal unfolds. A magistrate judge recently granted him permission to travel for advocacy events across the United States.
Khalil stated after the court proceedings, “They want to make an example of me to intimidate those speaking out for Palestine across the country. I will continue my legal battle to defend my rights and everyone’s right to free speech.”
As one of the first protestors targeted in the Trump administration’s extensive initiative to deport student activists and academics involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, Khalil steadfastly rejects allegations of antisemitism against him.
