Federal court reviews Columbia student's detention over protests
A federal court in Manhattan will hear arguments on Wednesday regarding the detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student. Khalil was arrested by immigration agents and is facing deportation due to his involvement in pro-Palestinian protests. Khalil's lawyers argue that his actions are protected free speech and that the government is retaliating against him. A judge has temporarily halted his deportation while the case is considered. Protests supporting Khalil have occurred in New York City, with some arrests made during demonstrations. Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident, completed his master's degree in December and is married to a U.S. citizen.