N.J. Judge Affirms Jurisdiction in Controversial Suit Over Mahmoud Khalil’s Detention

In a significant legal development, a New Jersey judge has ruled in favor of Mahmoud Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident and pro-Palestinian activist facing deportation. Judge Michael Fabiarz denied the government’s motion to dismiss Khalil’s habeas petition, affirming jurisdiction over the case due to Khalil’s custody status in New Jersey when the petition was filed. Khalil’s attorneys argue that his detention violates his due process and First Amendment rights, raising concerns about government attempts to shift cases to favorable jurisdictions.

Khalil has been held in a Louisiana detention center since his arrest on March 8, accused of leading activities linked to Hamas, a designation he denies. His legal team maintains that there is no evidence supporting any terrorism-related charges against him. They assert that the allegations stem from his political activism and stress that Khalil’s deportation is rooted in “unconstitutional” grounds.

The Justice Department characterized Khalil’s case as involving serious foreign policy concerns, yet attorneys argue that the claims lack substance and aim to silence free expression. With the static of legal complexities, Khalil’s case highlights pivotal issues of immigration rights and free speech in the context of U.S. political activism. As proceedings continue, a federal judge has halted his deportation while examining the serious allegations presented.