Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian graduate student at Columbia University, has described himself as a “political prisoner” following his detention by U.S. immigration authorities. The Trump administration is seeking to deport Khalil, a lawful permanent resident, over his role in pro-Palestinian protests, citing alleged adverse foreign policy consequences.
A federal judge in Manhattan declined to rule on his release but transferred the case to New Jersey, where Khalil was first detained. His arrest has sparked widespread protests and condemnation from human rights groups and over 100 Democratic lawmakers, who view it as an attack on free speech.
Khalil’s legal team insists he has no ties to Hamas, despite unsubstantiated claims from former President Donald Trump. Critics argue that his detention exemplifies anti-Palestinian discrimination and raises concerns over the suppression of political dissent.
Source: Swifteradio.com