Judge Orders Release of Pro-Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil Amid Controversy

In a significant legal development, U.S. District Judge Michael Farbiarz ordered the immediate release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and prominent pro-Palestinian activist. Khalil had been detained under the Trump administration's policy targeting foreign students involved in protests against Israel's Gaza actions.

The decision follows Khalil's arrest by immigration agents in Manhattan on March 8, a move that rights groups challenged as unconstitutional. President Donald Trump labeled such protests antisemitic and sought deportation of participants, with Khalil being the policy's first target. Farbiarz's ruling was a decisive moment, stating the government failed to prove Khalil a flight risk or public threat.

While the White House plans to appeal, expressing confidence in a future vindication, Khalil's release marks a victory for free speech advocates. The ongoing legal battle highlights tensions over immigration and First Amendment rights, with Khalil's lawyers contesting further charges related to his residency application.

(With inputs from agencies.)