Story perspectives

Board Denies Khalil's Deportation Appeal Amid Safety Concerns

4/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Board of Immigration Appeals denied Mahmoud Khalil's request to dismiss his deportation case, increasing the likelihood of his re-arrest and expulsion.
Khalil, a Palestinian activist and former Columbia University student, described the ruling as “biased and politically motivated.”
His lawyers contend he cannot be lawfully detained while pursuing a separate federal case.
Khalil spent 104 days in immigration jail and claims the government lacks evidence connecting him to Hamas.
He fears for his safety if deported due to his Syrian birth and Algerian citizenship.

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Story summary

The Board of Immigration Appeals denied Mahmoud Khalil's request to dismiss his deportation case, increasing the likelihood of his re-arrest and expulsion.
Khalil, a Palestinian activist and former Columbia University student, described the ruling as “biased and politically motivated.”
His lawyers contend he cannot be lawfully detained while pursuing a separate federal case.
Khalil spent 104 days in immigration jail and claims the government lacks evidence connecting him to Hamas.
He fears for his safety if deported due to his Syrian birth and Algerian citizenship.