U.S. Immigration Judge Approves Expulsion of Pro-Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil

The decision, based on national security claims by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, faces legal challenges as Khalil remains detained in Louisiana.

Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent pro-Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, was ordered expelled by immigration judge Jamee Comans on April 11, 2025.
The expulsion was justified by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who cited Khalil’s activities as potentially harmful to U.S. foreign policy.
Khalil, detained since March 8 at an ICE facility in Louisiana, has launched legal appeals challenging the decision and the legality of his detention.
The case highlights a broader government crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism on U.S. campuses, including visa revocations and financial pressures on universities.
Khalil’s legal team argues the case raises constitutional issues, including free speech and due process, which may be addressed in federal court.