The wife of the jailed Columbia University graduate student says the family can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
A federal judge in the United States has ordered the release of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, who has been held in immigration detention since March due to his participation in pro-Palestine protests at Columbia University.
The decision, issued on Friday by a federal court in New Jersey, grants Khalil bail as his legal team continues to challenge his detention. This ruling is separate from his ongoing deportation proceedings, which remain under review in immigration courts.
Khalil, a legal permanent resident, may not be released immediately, but the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)—which is representing him—confirmed that he will soon return to New York to reunite with his family.
“This is a joyous day for Mahmoud, his family, and for everyone’s First Amendment rights,” said ACLU attorney Noor Zafar, referring to the constitutional protection of free speech in the United States.
“Since his arrest in early March, the government has repeatedly acted to punish Mahmoud for voicing his political beliefs about Palestine. But today’s ruling reinforces a vital truth: the government cannot misuse immigration law to silence dissent.”
Khalil was the first known activist to have his legal immigration status revoked and be detained by the Trump administration solely for his involvement in campus protests.
His case drew national attention, especially after officials denied his request to be present at the birth of his first child in April.