By Emeka Blast 
From Protest to Prison: Columbia Grad Sues Trump Admin for $20M
Who is Mahmoud Khalil?
Mahmoud Khalil, a 30-year-old Palestinian-American and Columbia University graduate, became a symbol of student-led pro-Palestinian protests across U.S. campuses. His vocal activism reportedly made him a target of federal immigration enforcement.
🚔 Arrested Without Warning
In March 2025, Khalil was snatched by ICE agents without a warrant while heading to a job interview. Authorities accused him of being a national security threat, claiming ties to terrorism and antisemitic behavior — all of which Khalil strongly denies.
He spent 104 days locked in a Louisiana detention center. No charges. No trial. Just a revocation of his visa and claims based on Cold War-era immigration laws.
💼 The $20 Million Fight Back
Khalil is now suing the Trump administration for $20 million, filing a formal complaint under the Federal Tort Claims Act. His accusations include:
False imprisonment
Malicious prosecution
Character assassination — with claims he was smeared as antisemitic and wrongfully linked to Hamas
🧾 What Khalil is Demanding
Financial damages of $20M
A public apology
Policy reforms to protect political dissent
A pledge to donate any awarded funds to other victims of wrongful detention
🚨 DHS Claps Back
The Department of Homeland Security dismissed the lawsuit as “absurd,” saying Khalil exhibited “hateful” conduct and posed a threat. His legal team insists it was all part of a coordinated effort to criminalize pro-Palestinian speech.
⚖️ Why This Case Matters
Khalil’s legal battle is more than a personal fight — it’s a test case for free speech, due process, and immigration abuse in America. Civil rights groups are watching closely, warning this could set a dangerous precedent if left unchallenged.
🎙️ Khalil Speaks Out:
“This was not about law or justice — it was about silencing me because of what I stand for.”
