Judge Says US Bid to Deport Mahmoud Khalil Likely Violates Constitution

The secretary of state had determined that Khalil’s presence ‘compromises a compelling foreign policy interest.’
Judge Says US Bid to Deport Mahmoud Khalil Likely Violates Constitution
Mahmoud Khalil speaks to members of media about the Revolt for Rafah encampment at Columbia University during the ongoing conflict between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas in Gaza, in New York City on June 1, 2024. Jeenah Moon/File Photo/Reuters
Savannah Hulsey Pointer
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The Trump administration’s efforts to deport a pro-Palestinian activist at Columbia University were ruled likely unconstitutional by a federal judge.

In a May 28 ruling, Judge Michael Farbiarz put a pause on the removal of Mahmoud Khalil, saying the government’s argument—that the immigrant was a potential threat to U.S. foreign policy interests due to his beliefs—allowing his removal would open removal proceedings to arbitrary enforcement.