Mahmoud Khalil, a Syrian-born green card holder of Palestinian heritage, is expected to be retaken and deported to Algeria after a 2-1 ruling by the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed his release. Khalil was arrested by ICE on March 8, 2025, the first campus activist detained in the administration's crackdown on pro-Palestinian protests. The government alleges he supported Hamas and lied on residency paperwork; Khalil denies supporting violence and has filed a $20 million claim alleging false imprisonment.
DHS Says Mahmoud Khalil Likely To Be Retaken And Deported To Algeria After Appeals Ruling
Mahmoud Khalil will be deported to Algeria, DHS official says
Department of Homeland Security officials said Wednesday that Mahmoud Khalil, a Syrian-born activist of Palestinian heritage who holds a U.S. green card, is expected to be retaken into custody and deported to Algeria following a recent appeals-court decision.
What Happened
On Jan. 15, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a 2-1 ruling that reversed a lower-court order that had released Khalil from immigration custody, moving the government a step closer to detaining and removing him. Khalil was originally arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on March 8, 2025; his detention was the first arrest of a campus activist in the administration's crackdown on pro-Palestinian demonstrations amid the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
DHS Statement And Legal Stakes
Tricia McLaughlin, DHS assistant secretary for public affairs, told host Katie Pavlich on "Katie Pavlich Tonight" that "it looks like he'll go to Algeria. That's what the thought is right now," when asked about Khalil's status. McLaughlin also warned lawful permanent residents and visa holders to remember they are visitors in the United States and to "act like it," calling residency in the country a privilege rather than a right.
Pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil poses for a portrait during an interview, July 3, 2025, in New York.
The Trump administration alleges Khalil supported Hamas, which it designates a terrorist organization, and that he provided false information on his application for permanent residence. Khalil and his attorneys have repeatedly denied that he supports violence and have challenged the government's removal efforts on constitutional grounds.
“Who is Mahmoud Khalil? … Mahmoud Khalil is a human rights defender. Mahmoud Khalil is a freedom fighter. Mahmoud Khalil is a refugee. Mahmoud Khalil is a father and husband, and above all, Mahmoud Khalil is Palestinian,” Khalil said while speaking to supporters at a June rally.
Civil Claims And Personal Impact
Khalil has filed a $20 million claim against the federal government alleging false imprisonment and malicious prosecution. He also missed the birth of his first child while detained at an ICE facility in Louisiana, a detail his legal team has highlighted as part of the personal toll of his detention.
What Comes Next
With the appeals court reversal, the government is positioned to retake Khalil and pursue removal proceedings. News outlets report that NewsNation reached out to members of Khalil's legal team for comment. Legal challenges and potential further appeals could continue to influence the timing and outcome of any deportation.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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