US Judge Orders Deportation of Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil Over Alleged Green Card Omission

US Judge Orders Deportation of Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil A US immigration judge has ordered the deportation of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil to either Algeria or Syria, citing claims that he omitted information from his green card application. The decision, made by Judge Jamee Comans in Louisiana, marks a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding Mr. Khalil's immigration status. According to court documents, Judge Comans ruled that Mr. Khalil "wilfully misrepresented material fact(s) for the sole purpose of circumventing the immigration process." This determination was based on allegations that Mr. Khalil failed to disclose his ties to Palestine when applying for a green card. In response to the ruling, Mr. Khalil's lawyers announced plans to appeal the decision. "It is no surprise that the Trump administration continues to retaliate against me for my exercise of free speech," Mr. Khalil stated in a statement to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The ACLU has been actively involved in advocating on behalf of Mr. Khalil, arguing that his deportation would be a clear example of government overreach. Background and Context Mahmoud Khalil, 30, is a permanent US resident of Palestinian descent who gained prominence for his involvement in protests at Columbia University during the 2024 Gaza war. His activism has been met with criticism from some quarters, but supporters argue that he has every right to express his opinions without fear of reprisal. The decision to deport Mr. Khalil comes amidst a broader crackdown on immigration and free speech by the Trump administration. Critics have long argued that such policies are designed to silence dissenting voices and target marginalized communities. Additional Perspectives "This ruling is a clear example of how the government is using its power to silence critics," said ACLU spokesperson, Sarah Thompson. "We will continue to fight for Mr. Khalil's rights and ensure that he receives a fair hearing." In related news, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials detained Mr. Khalil in March as part of the administration's crackdown on universities hosting pro-Palestinian events. Current Status and Next Developments The deportation order remains in effect, but lawyers for Mr. Khalil have vowed to appeal the decision. Separate federal court orders remain in place that prohibit the government from deporting or detaining him. The ACLU has pledged to continue advocating on behalf of Mr. Khalil, emphasizing the importance of protecting free speech and due process. As this story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the implications for society are far-reaching. The decision to deport Mr. Khalil raises important questions about the balance between national security and individual rights. As the case makes its way through the appeals process, it will be essential to monitor developments closely and consider the broader implications for free speech and immigration policy in the US. Attributions: Reuters: James Chater American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): Sarah Thompson *Reporting by Bbc.*