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U.S. Attorney Detained for Defending Pro-Palestinian Activists

4/12/2025

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Left

Makled Defends Dissent

Amir Makled, a U.S. citizen and attorney, was detained at Detroit Metro Airport upon returning from vacation, targeted by immigration officials for representing pro-Palestinian activists. When they demanded access to his phone, he stood firm, citing confidentiality. Makled believes this incident highlights a troubling trend of suppressing dissent in today's political climate.

Center

Khalil Fights Deportation

Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student, is fighting against deportation after a Louisiana judge deemed him a national security threat due to his pro-Palestinian activism. Citing a Cold War-era law, the Trump administration's decision has sparked outrage. Khalil, a lawful permanent resident, vows to appeal, standing firm in his commitment to free speech.

History

Historical Context

Recent detentions of pro-Palestinian activists, like Amir Makled and Mahmoud Khalil, echo past government crackdowns on dissent, notably during the McCarthy era. The Cold War-era Immigration and Nationality Act is now used to justify deportations based on perceived national security threats, reflecting a historical pattern of suppressing political dissent in the U.S. through legal means, particularly against marginalized voices.

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Makled Defends Dissent

Amir Makled, a U.S. citizen and attorney, was detained at Detroit Metro Airport upon returning from vacation, targeted by immigration officials for representing pro-Palestinian activists. When they demanded access to his phone, he stood firm, citing confidentiality. Makled believes this incident highlights a troubling trend of suppressing dissent in today's political climate.

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