World Immigration News

US must release Columbia activist Mahmoud Khalil pending outcome of immigration case

Release Date: 2025-06-21
Media: JURISTnews
Summary: On June 21, 2025, a U.S. federal judge in New Jersey ordered the immediate release of activist Mahmoud Khalil, who had been detained for over three months following his arrest by ICE during pro-Palestinian student protests in New York City.

Judge Michael Farbiarz ruled that Khalil is neither a flight risk nor a danger to the community, and called the government’s continued efforts to detain him “highly unusual.” Khalil must remain within five states (NJ, NY, MI, DC, and LA), attend immigration hearings in Louisiana, surrender his Algerian passport, and is prohibited from leaving the U.S. His green card will also be returned.

Khalil’s lawyers praised the decision, calling it a victory for free speech and warning against the use of immigration law to silence dissent. However, the White House plans to appeal, arguing that the New Jersey judge lacked jurisdiction to release a detainee held in Louisiana and expressing confidence in ultimately deporting Khalil.
Tags: United States of America

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