Full Breakdown
The Deportation Battles of Palestinian Activists in the U.S.
2/12/2026, 11:32:15 PM
Mahmoud Khalil's Legal Struggles
Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist, faces potential deportation following his detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last year. Khalil was apprehended in March 2025 at his New York City apartment due to his advocacy for Palestinian rights at Columbia University. His case has gained attention as a significant example of the current administration's immigration enforcement policies. Khalil's detention lasted 104 days, during which he was separated from his wife, who was pregnant at the time. He was released in June 2025 after a federal judge ruled his detention unconstitutional, but the government has since appealed that decision.
Shifting Public Perception of ICE
Recent polling indicates a notable shift in public opinion regarding ICE. A February Marist poll revealed that a majority of Americans believe ICE has overstepped its authority, with approval ratings for the agency at historic lows. This change in sentiment is reflected in the increasing number of constituent calls to congressional offices regarding ICE's actions, particularly concerning raids at schools and hospitals. Even some Republican lawmakers, who previously supported strict immigration enforcement, are now facing uncomfortable questions about due process in immigration cases.
Legal Precedents and Implications
Khalil's case is complicated by a recent ruling from the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, which determined that federal district courts lack jurisdiction over cases while individuals are in removal proceedings. This ruling could prevent immigrants from challenging their detention until their cases are fully processed, raising concerns about access to justice. Khalil's attorney, Amy Greer, emphasized the implications of this decision, stating that it could deny individuals the ability to contest the motivations behind their removal proceedings.
Leqaa Kordia's Ongoing Detention
Another Palestinian activist, Leqaa Kordia, remains in detention after being targeted for her participation in pro-Palestine demonstrations. Kordia's family reported a lack of communication from immigration officials during a recent medical emergency, highlighting the challenges faced by detainees and their families. Amnesty International has called for her release, asserting that her detention is politically motivated and violates her rights to free speech and protest. Kordia's legal team has argued that she has been unfairly detained for overstaying her visa, despite her initial arrival in the U.S. on a visitor's visa and subsequent attempts to secure permanent residency.
Criticism of Immigration Policies
Both Khalil and Kordia's cases have drawn criticism from various advocacy groups and legal experts. Activists argue that the targeting of pro-Palestinian advocates reflects a broader trend of political repression against dissenting voices. Khalil noted that the rhetoric used against him during his detention mirrors that used against other activists, suggesting a coordinated effort to silence opposition. Kordia's family and supporters have emphasized the urgent need for her release, citing her deteriorating health and the inhumane conditions of her detention.
Conclusion: The Broader Impact
The deportation battles faced by Mahmoud Khalil and Leqaa Kordia underscore the complexities of U.S. immigration policy and its intersection with political activism. As public sentiment shifts and legal challenges mount, the outcomes of these cases may have far-reaching implications for other activists and immigrants navigating the U.S. immigration system. The growing awareness and advocacy surrounding these issues signal a potential turning point in the national conversation about immigration enforcement and civil rights.
