Judge Grants Mahmoud Khalil More Time to Prepare Immigration Case

A judge in Louisiana has granted Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University activist and green card holder, additional time to prepare for his immigration hearing. Khalil, who is married to a U.S. citizen, faces potential deportation over alleged connections to the Palestinian group Hamas. Despite these accusations, he has not been charged with a crime.

During the hearing at Lasalle Immigration Court in Jena, the judge stated that Khalil "deserves more time" to prepare his defense and postponed proceedings until April 8. This decision came after Khalil’s legal team requested more time to review the case, describing the charges as "serious." A Department of Homeland Security lawyer initially opposed the delay, citing the cost of Khalil’s detention to the government.

Khalil appeared calm and composed during the hearing, responding quietly to the judge’s questions. He confirmed that he could proceed in English, although he also speaks Arabic. The courtroom was notably small and windowless, adding to the tense atmosphere.

Known for his leadership in anti-Israel protests at Columbia University, Khalil has previously accused the institution of failing to address antisemitic behavior on campus. In a letter released by his attorneys earlier this week, Khalil characterized his arrest as "indicative of anti-Palestinian racism." He further criticized both the Biden and Trump administrations for policies he claims repress Palestinians and Arab Americans. "My unjust detention is indicative of the anti-Palestinian racism... That is precisely why I am being targeted," Khalil wrote.

In a separate legal victory for Khalil, a judge ruled that his deportation case will be heard in New Jersey, where his attorneys initially filed a lawsuit challenging his detention. This move follows a controversial decision by immigration officials to transfer Khalil to Louisiana, citing bedbug infestations at the New Jersey detention center.

Khalil’s wife, Noor Abdalla, has been vocal about his detention, calling it "unlawful and unjust." In a statement released by the American Civil Liberties Union, she vowed to continue fighting for his release, emphasizing that he belongs "home with me."