Washington: Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and prominent pro-Palestinian activist, met his infant son for the first time Thursday morning, just hours before appearing for an immigration hearing that could determine whether he faces deportation from the United States.
Khalil, who has been held in federal custody since his March arrest by immigration authorities, saw his wife, Dr. Noor Abdalla, and their one-month-old son, Deen, during a brief but emotional visit at the LaSalle Immigration Detention Facility. The meeting was made possible following a judge’s order a day earlier requiring authorities to allow the family reunion.
“He was able to hold his child, embrace his wife, and share a few private moments with them,” said attorney Amy Greer, speaking to reporters after the proceedings. Greer noted that legal counsel respected the family’s privacy during the meeting and could not disclose further details.
After a full day of testimony, Immigration Judge Jamee Comans did not issue an immediate decision regarding Khalil’s possible deportation, stating that a ruling would be delivered at a later date.
Khalil has emerged as a high-profile figure in campus activism against Israel’s military operations in Gaza, and his case has drawn national attention. Critics argue that his arrest reflects a broader pattern by the Trump administration to target political dissent using immigration enforcement tools.
Federal authorities maintain that Khalil’s continued presence in the U.S. could pose risks to foreign policy interests. His green card was revoked in early March, prompting his arrest on March 8.
Khalil, however, contends that his detention is an infringement on his right to free speech and a politically motivated attempt to silence opposition.
