FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 11, 2025
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Today, an immigration judge ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful U.S. permanent resident, is “removable” under Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s baseless claim that Khalil’s presence and beliefs threaten U.S. foreign policy interests. This ruling punishes Khalil for advocating Palestinian rights and sets a dangerous precedent that undermines free speech for all, including U.S. citizens. He remains in detention without charge, even as his wife is nine months pregnant.
ADC previously warned that Khalil’s arrest would chill First Amendment-protected expression and dissent. That warning has been realized. This disturbing escalation reflects a broader Zionist-driven persecution of pro-Palestine speech that will eventually erode the rights of everyone. Recent crackdowns carried out in the name of combating antisemitism do not make Jewish people safer. Instead, it erodes democracy and threatens the rights of all, including many Jewish Americans who have also exercised their freedom of speech and dissent to denounce Israel’s genocide on Palestine.
Secretary Rubio confirmed that he has canceled hundreds of student visas because of their criticism of Israel’s actions. Forty-five percent of Americans say Israel’s operations in Gaza constitute genocide, war crimes, or unjustified force, yet individuals who share these views face severe retaliation. Congress must condemn this attack on the First Amendment and demand Khalil’s release.
This ruling is only the beginning of the fight for Khalil’s freedom. Khalil should be home supporting his growing family, not locked away for exercising his right to free expression. ADC stands with Mahmoud Khalil and everyone unjustly targeted for speaking out. The First Amendment protects us all — if it fails for Khalil, it fails for everyone.