Archive · 14 Jun 2025
Judge Denies Release for Pro-Palestinian Protest Leader
A U.S. judge decided that Mahmoud Khalil, who was part of a pro-Palestinian protest, must stay in jail.
The government initially said they were holding him because of the protest.
Now, they say it's because of immigration fraud.
Khalil's lawyer says this is unfair, and it is happening because Khalil doesn't support Israel's actions.
Celebrities want him released.
Mahmoud Khalil's request for release from detention was denied by a U.S. judge.
Khalil, a Columbia graduate student, was arrested in March for involvement in pro-Palestinian protests.
The government changed its rationale for holding Khalil, now citing immigration fraud.
Khalil's lawyer claims the detention is punishment for opposing Israel's actions.
Celebrities including Mahershala Ali and Mark Ruffalo called for Khalil's release.
- Who
- Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian protestor and graduate student.
- What
- Mahmoud Khalil's request for release was denied and remains in detention.
- When
- Friday, Judge denied Khalil's request; arrested in March.
- Where
- Newark, New Jersey, detention center, Columbia University residence.
- Why
- Initially for involvement in pro-Palestinian protests; now immigration fraud.
- Defendant
- Mahmoud Khalil
- Charge
- Immigration Fraud
- Judge
- Michael Farbiarz
- Location of Detention
- Louisiana
- Arrest Date
- March 8
