Lawyers seek release of Mahmoud Khalil from detention

Attorneys for Mahmoud Khalil are seeking his release from ICE detention after his arrest for leading anti-war protests at Columbia University. Khalil, a green card holder, is currently held in Louisiana, despite living in New York. A judge has allowed Khalil to have two privileged calls with his lawyers this week. His legal team plans to file an amended complaint with the ACLU, arguing that his arrest was unlawful and seeking an expedited court hearing. The U.S. government intends to deport Khalil, citing national security concerns. This action has raised alarms about the implications for free speech and dissent in the U.S., as Khalil's activism focused on Palestinian rights.