The immigration case against Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil, detained last month by U.S. authorities, approaches a pivotal moment as a federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to present evidence supporting his potential deportation by Wednesday night. Khalil, whose legal team maintains he has not been formally charged with any crime, faces allegations of "terrorist sympathies" linked to his participation in pro-Palestine campus protests in 2023.
U.S. immigration officials argue that Khalil's activism justifies revocation of his visa, though specifics of the evidence remain undisclosed. Advocacy groups have criticized the case as emblematic of heightened scrutiny on foreign students engaging in political speech. "This sets a dangerous precedent for conflating activism with extremism," said a representative from the National Students for Justice Network.
Khalil's supporters emphasize his academic record and lack of criminal history, while legal experts note the unusual speed of deportation proceedings. The outcome could influence how U.S. policies address foreign nationals involved in contentious geopolitical demonstrations. A ruling is expected by Friday if the administration meets the deadline.
