Legal Clash: Deportation of Palestinian Activist Sparks Constitutional Debate

A federal judge has challenged the Trump administration's strategy to deport Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist, demanding detailed legal justification. The administration claims his presence endangers U.S. foreign policy. Khalil, a Columbia graduate student, remains detained without charges since his March arrest.

Judge Michael Farbiarz has requested a comprehensive list of legal precedents for Khalil's deportation. The administration contends Khalil poses a threat due to his protests and criticism of Israel. Khalil's legal team argues these activities fall outside U.S. foreign policy and stress his anti-antisemitism stance.

Farbiarz's order coincides with past judicial rebuffs against similar deportation cases. Experts worry about the potential misuse of law as Khalil's case underscores constitutional and immigration law challenges, echoing the historic case of Mario Ruiz Massieu.

(With inputs from agencies.)