Columbia Grad Detained: Trump Admin Defies Court Order, Keeping Palestinian Activist Imprisoned

Mahmoud Khalil, a recent Columbia University graduate and Palestinian activist, remains detained in a Louisiana facility despite a federal judge’s order for his release. The Trump administration missed a deadline to appeal the ruling, prompting Khalil’s lawyers to demand his immediate freedom.

Judge Michael Farbiarz ruled Wednesday that Khalil’s detention, based on Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s assertion that his pro-Palestinian advocacy harms U.S. foreign policy interests, was unconstitutional. The judge granted a temporary injunction against Khalil’s deportation, giving the government until Friday morning to appeal. When the deadline passed without action, Khalil’s legal team declared the continued detention unlawful and arbitrary.

However, the government claims the judge’s order doesn’t mandate Khalil’s release. They argue they are now detaining him on separate allegations related to his 2024 residency application, specifically, alleged undisclosed memberships and affiliations. Khalil’s lawyers dismiss these allegations as baseless.

The government’s actions have drawn sharp criticism. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin previously stated the government would challenge the ruling, claiming it undermined the President’s powers and “delays justice.” This stance, coupled with the missed deadline, has intensified calls for Khalil’s release.

Khalil, a legal permanent resident, has been detained since March 9th. His detention has sparked widespread concern, particularly given his active role in campus protests against Israeli military actions and Columbia’s ties to Israel. He also acted as a mediator between students and the university administration.

Adding to the emotional weight of the situation, Khalil recently met his one-month-old son for the first time since his arrest. His wife accepted his diploma from Columbia University on his behalf last month.

The case highlights a clash between free speech, immigration policy, and the complexities of U.S. foreign relations. The ongoing legal battle underscores the high stakes for Khalil and raises serious questions about due process and the limits of government power.

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