Mahmoud Khalil case: Ordered to show evidence, government asserts Rubio’s authority

Mahmoud Khalil, an activist from Columbia University, is facing deportation from the U.S. on grounds that his presence poses an adverse foreign policy consequence. However, his lawyers argued that the government failed to provide sufficient evidence to support this claim during a hearing in Louisiana.

Khalil, a green card holder and legal permanent resident married to an American citizen, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last month. The government presented a two-page memo signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, stating that Khalil’s presence in the U.S. would compromise a compelling foreign policy interest. The memo cited Khalil’s alleged involvement in anti-Semitic protests and disruptive activities as reasons for deportation.

However, Khalil’s attorneys criticized the memo, calling it baseless and politically motivated. They questioned the lack of evidence supporting the allegations of misrepresentation on Khalil’s visa application and his involvement in negotiations with Columbia University. The lawyers emphasized that the case is fundamentally about free speech and the right to criticize U.S. and Israeli policies.

The immigration judge is expected to make a ruling on Khalil’s deportation on Friday. If deemed removable, the case will enter a new phase with further legal proceedings. Khalil’s legal team plans to depose Rubio in court to challenge the grounds for his deportation and protect his right to remain in the U.S.

The case highlights the broader implications of silencing dissenting voices and targeting activists for their political views. Khalil’s lawyers are committed to defending his rights and ensuring that the legal process is fair and transparent. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for freedom of speech and expression in the U.S.