Archive · 21 Jun 2025
Judge Orders Release of Pro-Palestinian Activist Khalil
A judge has ordered the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist, from immigration detention.
The judge said the government didn't have a good enough reason to keep him locked up.
Khalil was arrested after taking part in protests.
The government says he should be deported.
However, the judge said the government's actions might be against the Constitution, especially his right to free speech.
Khalil's immigration case is still ongoing even though he has been ordered to be released.
The judge will consider whether the government's actions in detaining Khalil violated his rights.
Judge Farbiarz ordered Mahmoud Khalil's release from immigration custody.
Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist, was arrested on March 8th.
The judge stated the government didn't provide evidence refuting Khalil's non-flight risk.
The White House condemned the release and plans to appeal the decision.
Immigration proceedings against Khalil continue despite his release order.
- Who
- Mahmoud Khalil and Judge Michael Farbiarz.
- What
- U.S. judge ordered the release of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil from immigration custody.
- When
- Order given on Friday, release by 6:30 pm (7:30 ET) Friday.
- Where
- Newark, New Jersey (order); Louisiana (detention).
- Why
- The judge ruled the government did not provide evidence that Khalil was a flight risk or a danger.
Khalil's View
Government's View
Reason for Detention
Khalil's View
Khalil believes his detention is a punishment for his political speech, in violation of the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment.
Government's View
The government states he should be deported for conduct detrimental to American foreign policy interests and allegedly withholding information on his application for lawful permanent residency.
- Detainee
- Mahmoud Khalil
- Judge
- Michael Farbiarz
- Allegation
- Withholding information on permanent residency application
- Detention Location
- Louisiana
- Release Order
- Ordered by Friday evening