Judge Cites Immigration Fraud in Khalil Detention

A federal judge has denied the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University student and pro-Palestinian activist, after the government shifted the grounds for his detention from foreign policy concerns to an allegation of fraud on his green card application. Judge Michael Farbiarz ruled that detaining Khalil solely due to his activism was likely unconstitutional, but allowed continued detention based on the new administrative immigration charge. Khalil's lawyers argue these charges are pretextual and rarely used in such cases, describing the government's actions as punitive. The judge stated that Khalil can now pursue bail through immigration court proceedings. The case has drawn national attention and raised concerns about due process and free speech protections for foreign activists. Khalil is expected to appeal the immigration judge’s ruling that authorizes his deportation as a national security risk.