Federal Judge Frees Mahmoud Khalil After Unlawful Detention: A Landmark Immigration Case

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian-American student and activist, is now free after spending more than 100 days in detention. A federal judge ruled that the U.S. government violated his rights. His case is now a symbol of the fight for civil liberties and free speech.

Who Is Mahmoud Khalil?

Mahmoud Khalil is a legal U.S. resident. He was born in Syria to Palestinian parents and moved to the U.S. with a green card. He studied at Columbia University and became active in student protests supporting Palestinian rights.

Khalil is also a husband and a new father. His wife, Dr. Noor Abdalla, gave birth to their first child shortly before Khalil’s arrest in March 2025.

Why Was He Arrested?

On March 8, 2025, ICE agents arrested Khalil at his home. They took him to the LaSalle Detention Center in Louisiana. Officials claimed that Khalil posed a threat to U.S. foreign policy due to his activism.

They used a rare Trump-era immigration law to justify his detention. This law allows the government to hold immigrants who might “undermine foreign policy.” His supporters say this was an excuse to punish him for his political views.

Civil rights groups called the arrest a clear case of retaliation. Khalil had no criminal history. He held a valid green card and had not broken any laws.

Legal Case: Khalil v. Trump

Soon after the arrest, Khalil’s legal team filed a habeas petition. They argued that his detention was unconstitutional. The case landed in a New Jersey federal court under Judge Michael E. Farbiarz.

What Did the Judge Say?

Judge Farbiarz reviewed the facts carefully. In several hearings, he made the following key points:

• The government did not prove that Khalil was dangerous or a flight risk.
• The law used to detain Khalil was likely unconstitutional.
• The arrest appeared to be punishment for protected speech, not based on any crime.

In late May 2025, the judge warned the government that he might order Khalil’s release unless they showed stronger evidence.

Judge Orders Release

On June 20, 2025, Judge Farbiarz ordered Khalil’s release. The judge said the detention was illegal and violated his basic rights.

Conditions of Release:

• Khalil was released on bail.
• He must remain in the U.S.
• He surrendered his passport.
• He must appear in immigration court when required.

The court made it clear: peaceful protest is not a crime.

Family and Public Reaction

Khalil’s wife, Noor, shared a message of relief:

“This victory means everything to our family. We thank everyone who stood with us.”

The ACLU, which supported the case, celebrated the decision. Many viewed it as a win for the First Amendment and immigrant rights.

Protesters and student groups at Columbia also welcomed the news. Many had organized rallies and online campaigns calling for his release.

What Happens Next?

Khalil is free for now, but his legal fight continues.

• The Department of Homeland Security may appeal the judge’s ruling.
• Deportation hearings are still pending in immigration court.
• Khalil’s legal team plans to fight any removal orders.

The case could move to a higher federal court. If that happens, the decision could set a national precedent.

Why This Case Matters

This case highlights important legal and political issues:

1. Free Speech for Immigrants

Even though Khalil is not a U.S. citizen, he has the right to protest and speak freely. The judge ruled that the government cannot silence people for political opinions — even if they are immigrants.

2. Misuse of Immigration Laws

The law used against Khalil was meant for real threats, not student activists. Legal experts say the government stretched it too far in this case. Judge Farbiarz agreed.

3. Detention Without Just Cause

Khalil spent more than 100 days in detention. He was far from his family and newborn son. The judge called this a violation of due process, which protects people from unfair treatment by the government.

Student Protests and Government Response

Khalil had led peaceful protests at Columbia University. These included rallies, sit-ins, and public speeches. His actions were part of a larger student movement demanding an end to the war in Gaza.

But his activism drew attention from law enforcement. Supporters believe this was part of a broader effort to intimidate student activists across the country.

Several universities saw a rise in surveillance, disciplinary action, and arrests of students involved in political protests. Khalil’s case is now a powerful example of how civil liberties can come under threat.

Media and Public Opinion

The case received wide media coverage.

• Outlets like The Guardian, TIME, and The Cut reported on the arrest and legal battle.
• Conservative commentators defended the government’s actions.
• Liberal voices and human rights groups supported Khalil.

On social media, hashtags like #FreeMahmoudKhalil and #JusticeForKhalil trended. The story sparked debates about immigration, race, and free speech.

Summary of the Case

Final Thoughts

Mahmoud Khalil’s story is about more than one person. It shows the risks faced by immigrants who speak out. It also shows the power of the courts to protect rights when the government goes too far.

His case will likely be studied for years to come. It asks tough questions about law, speech, and what it means to be free in a democracy.

“Freedom of speech must apply to everyone — not just citizens,” said a Columbia law professor. “This ruling confirms that the Constitution protects us all.”