Federal court reviews Palestinian student's arrest challenge

A federal court case involving Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University student, is underway after he was arrested by immigration authorities. A judge has temporarily blocked his deportation and scheduled a hearing for Wednesday. Khalil's arrest is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to deport foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. His lawyers argue that his detention is illegal and retaliatory, claiming it violates his First Amendment rights. Khalil was moved to a federal jail in Louisiana, complicating access for his legal team. U.S. officials have indicated they will revoke visas and green cards of those supporting Hamas, but legal experts note that such actions typically require criminal charges. Khalil has not been charged with any crime.