A federal immigration judge has ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and outspoken participant in recent anti-Israel demonstrations, is eligible for deportation following findings of immigration-related violations.
The decision came after an expedited legal review that examined Khalil’s visa status and compliance with federal immigration law. According to court documents, authorities determined that Khalil had violated the terms of his student visa, prompting removal proceedings that have now advanced with the judge’s ruling.
Khalil, who rose to prominence for his vocal role in campus protests criticizing U.S. and Israeli policies, has drawn both support and scrutiny in recent weeks. While some praised his activism as a defense of human rights, others condemned the demonstrations as inflammatory and disruptive.
The judge clarified that the deportation ruling was based solely on immigration infractions and not the content of Khalil’s political expression. Federal prosecutors argued that Khalil failed to maintain full-time academic status—a key requirement of his visa—while also participating in events that allegedly obstructed university operations.
Immigration authorities are now authorized to proceed with his removal, although Khalil has the right to appeal the ruling. His legal team has not commented publicly on the next steps, but sources close to the case indicate that a formal appeal is likely.
Supporters of Khalil have organized protests and petition drives urging federal officials to halt the deportation, claiming the move is retaliatory and undermines free speech on college campuses. Meanwhile, immigration officials maintain that the enforcement action is consistent with longstanding policy and has no connection to the political nature of Khalil’s activism.
Columbia University, which has faced mounting pressure over its handling of campus protests, has not taken a formal stance on Khalil’s immigration case, citing privacy laws. However, university officials have reiterated their commitment to upholding both academic standards and student rights.
The case has sparked broader debate over the intersection of immigration law, political speech, and campus activism—raising questions about the limits of non-citizen participation in politically charged discourse on U.S. soil.