Federal Judge Transfers Mahmoud Khalil Case to New Jersey, Blocks Deportation

Palestinian activist and Columbia graduate Mahmoud Khalil remains in detention as legal challenges to his arrest and deportation proceed.

A federal judge has ordered Mahmoud Khalil's case to be transferred from Louisiana to New Jersey, where he was initially detained, citing jurisdictional requirements.
The judge reaffirmed a temporary block on Khalil's deportation, ensuring he remains in the U.S. while legal proceedings continue.
Khalil, a legal U.S. resident and pro-Palestinian activist, was arrested on March 8 under a rarely-used statute invoked by the Trump administration claiming foreign policy concerns.
His arrest and detention have triggered nationwide protests and raised concerns about free speech, civil liberties, and the targeting of pro-Palestinian activists.
Khalil’s legal team argues his detention violates constitutional rights, including free speech and due process, and continues to seek his release.