White House pursues deportation of Palestinian activist Khalil

The White House and State Department are pursuing the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and green card holder, citing potential foreign policy risks. Khalil was arrested for allegedly leading pro-Hamas rallies at Columbia University. Khalil's legal team argues that his arrest violates his free speech rights and that he has not supported any terrorist organization. Protests have erupted nationwide calling for his release. The Department of Homeland Security plans to identify more students involved in pro-Hamas activities. Khalil is currently detained in Louisiana, with a hearing scheduled for March 21.