'I am a political prisoner': Mahmoud Khalil speaks out from detention
3 Min Read
A federal judge has temporarily halted Khalil's deportation, ordering that the case be transferred to New Jersey federal court for further legal proceedings.
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A Columbia University student holds up a kufiya while waiting to enter the Manhattan federal court to attend a hearing in Mahmoud Khalil's deportation case on March 12, 2025, in New York. (AP)
Mahmoud Khalil, a well-known Palestinian activist and former Columbia University student, has denounced his detention by US immigration authorities, asserting that he is being targeted for his political stance. Khalil, who was arrested in New York on March 8, remains in custody at an immigration detention facility in Louisiana after US officials revoked his green card.
In a statement dictated over the phone to his family and shared exclusively with The Guardian, Khalil declared: "I am a political prisoner. I am writing to you from a detention facility in Louisiana where I wake to cold mornings and spend long days bearing witness to the quiet injustices underway against a great many people precluded from the protections of the law."
"My name is Mahmoud Khalil and I am a political prisoner. I am writing to you from a detention facility in Louisiana where I wake to cold mornings and spend long days bearing witness to the quiet injustices underway against . many people precluded from the protections of the law" pic.twitter.com/klDxlbMwby
— Adil Haque (@AdHaque110) March 18, 2025
Khalil, who helped organize pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University, was detained by US federal immigration officials, who claimed to be acting on a State Department directive. The activist has stated that his arrest was conducted without a warrant and that he was forcibly taken in an unmarked vehicle.
He contends that his detention is a direct consequence of his activism in support of Palestine and his opposition to Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza. "My arrest was a direct consequence of exercising my right to free speech as I advocated for a free Palestine and an end to the genocide in Gaza, which resumed in full force Monday night," he said.
Legal Challenges and Political Reactions
His legal team is challenging the decision to revoke his green card, arguing that no substantial justification has been provided for the move. The case has also drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and over 100 Democratic legislators, who view the arrest as a violation of free speech rights.
A federal judge has temporarily halted Khalil's deportation, ordering that the case be transferred to New Jersey federal court for further legal proceedings.
Khalil's arrest has sent shockwaves through activist and academic circles, particularly among international students and faculty. Many fear that political engagement—especially on issues like Palestine—could result in immigration consequences. Several universities have advised students to be cautious about participation in political protests, raising concerns about the state of free speech on campuses.
Read more: Pro-'Israel' group in US says reported ‘thousands’ on deportation list
In his statement from detention, Khalil urged supporters to continue advocating for justice, adding that his case reflects broader suppression of Palestinian activism. He also drew comparisons between his situation and the systemic oppression faced by Palestinians under Israeli occupation.
