Legal Battle Halts Deportation of Columbia University Student Amid Free Speech Debate

A U.S. judge has extended an order blocking the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student, amidst a heated debate over free speech and alleged support for pro-Palestinian activism. Khalil's arrest and potential deportation have sparked protests, questioning the government's stance on dissent and foreign policy.

A U.S. federal judge extended his order to block the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student, who has been at the center of a controversy involving free speech and pro-Palestinian activism. Judge Jesse Furman's decision grants more time to determine the constitutional legality of Khalil's arrest.

The Department of Homeland Security argues Khalil's deportation is due to his presence being deemed harmful to U.S. foreign policy. Khalil's legal team claims his arrest was a direct retaliation for his activism against Israel's military actions in Gaza, arguing this violates his First Amendment rights.

The case has galvanized protesters, who gathered in Manhattan to demand Khalil's release. As the legal process unfolds, the situation underscores the tense intersections of immigration, free speech, and university activism, challenging the government's approach to dissent on college campuses.

(With inputs from agencies.)