For now, Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil sits in detention, as the administration and his supporters fight over his green card application. Chief Judge Michael Farbiarz has just ruled against the Trump administration. They can only keep Khalil detained while they pursue allegations that he failed to provide material information on his application. The allegations stem from Khalil’s past employment with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). All of that history there is now under scrutiny.
The dispute began after Khalil filed for a green card. This was the basis for the Trump administration’s successful push to see him kicked out of UNRWA—a posting he maintained until December 2022. The administration argues that his omission raises national security concerns, claiming that his previous actions could have “potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States.”
The Trump administration has now submitted additional court filings in response to Khalil’s application. They raise other arguments for his continued detention apart from the original accusations. They argue that Khalil’s involvement in student protests at Columbia University reflects his support for terrorism. His past effectiveness as a mediator during protests against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza makes them especially fearful.
Khalil’s legal team continues to insist that his detention is illegal and deny the charges against him. They claim that he is not an “officer” of UNRWA. They angrily reject all allegations that his terrorism advocacy work contributes to supporting terrorism.
Marc Van Der Hout, a member of Khalil’s legal team, did not mince words. He further deemed it “highly unusual and frankly outrageous” to detain someone on such a criminal charge. His comments reveal just how highly charged this case has become. Equally important, they highlight what it could mean for others seeking to obtain permanent residency because of their political activism.
In light of these hurdles, advocates for Khalil have contended that instead of being punished, Khalil should be celebrated for his advocacy. Amy Greer, one of his cause’s biggest backers, wrote about her discouragement. Rather than celebrating together, he is languishing in ICE detention for fighting for his Palestinian brothers and sisters. We know that so many people can deeply identify with what happened to Khalil. It represents the larger issues we’re dealing with regarding immigration enforcement and freedom of expression in the United States.
Judge Farbiarz set a deadline for the Trump administration to file an appeal concerning Khalil’s release on bail. This decision underscores the ongoing legal battles surrounding immigration and detention policies under the previous administration.
Khalil’s case has received widespread media attention in part because of its serious legal implications. Beyond that, it catalyzes crucial conversations about international relations and advocacy on campuses. As a permanent resident, Khalil’s situation raises questions about the rights of foreign nationals in the U.S. and how their political activities may influence their immigration status.
