An immigration judge in Louisiana has given the federal government 24 hours to provide evidence justifying their attempt to deport Columbia University student activist Mahmoud Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident. Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist, was arrested in March and detained in Louisiana. The Trump administration is using a rarely used provision in immigration law to argue that Khalil’s presence in the U.S. has adverse foreign policy consequences. The government also alleges that Khalil withheld information on his residency application. Khalil’s lawyers dispute these claims, calling them absurd and unconstitutional.
The Department of Homeland Security has accused Khalil of supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, and organizing disruptive protests on college campuses. However, no criminal charges have been brought against Khalil. The immigration judge has scheduled a hearing for Friday to decide Khalil’s fate. If deemed deportable, his legal team can apply for relief. Khalil’s wife, a U.S. citizen, is expecting their first child this month, adding to the uncertainty and stress of the situation.
Khalil’s legal team argues that the rushed nature of the hearing deprives him of due process. The judge’s quick decision could potentially separate Khalil from his family during a crucial moment. The outcome of the hearing on Friday will determine whether Khalil is allowed to stay in the U.S. or face deportation, impacting his future and his ability to be there for the birth of his child.
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