Trump Admin Rebuked Judge Orders Release of Pro-Palestinian Activist

Federal Judge Orders Release of Pro-Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil from Immigration Custody

In a significant legal development, a federal judge has mandated the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, from immigration detention. The order, issued on Friday, marks a setback for the Trump administration's immigration policies.

Mahmoud Khalil, 29, had been in the custody of immigration agents since March 8, prompting concerns from his supporters and legal representatives. The case has drawn attention to the extent of executive power in immigration matters and the role of the courts in safeguarding individual liberties.

During the remote hearing, government attorney Dhruman Sampat argued that Congress had granted the executive branch extensive authority to decide who could be deported from the country, suggesting that judicial intervention was unwarranted.

Sampat asserted, "The courts should not have the authority to interfere."

However, U.S. District Court Judge Michael Farbiarz firmly disagreed with this assertion.

"I don’t think any of that is right," Judge Farbiarz stated during the hearing, signaling his skepticism toward the government's arguments. He further emphasized the compelling evidence indicating that Khalil posed no flight risk and presented no danger to the public.

Key points from Judge Farbiarz's ruling include:

• A "very strong and uncontested record" demonstrates Khalil is not a flight risk.
• Khalil poses no danger to the public.
• The judge has the discretion to order the release.

"I’m going to exercise the discretion that I have to order the release of the petitioner in this case," Judge Farbiarz declared, underscoring his decision to prioritize individual rights and due process.

The government's request for a seven-day stay on the order, which would have allowed them more time to potentially challenge the ruling, was denied by Judge Farbiarz. This decision underscores the urgency and importance the judge placed on Khalil's immediate release.

While the exact timing of Khalil's release remained uncertain immediately following the ruling, the court's decision represents a notable victory for civil rights advocates and a reminder of the judiciary's role in checking executive power. The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding immigration enforcement and the balance between national security concerns and individual freedoms. This case will continue to be one to watch as it progresses.

Tags: Mahmoud Khalil, Immigration custody, Trump administration, Pro-Palestinian, Columbia University, Judge Farbiarz, Court order, Dhruman Sampat, Release order, Immigration agents, Federal Judge, Immigration Law

Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/mahmoud-khalil-ordered-released-federal-judge-rcna214163