Mahmoud Khalil asks Supreme Court to review immigration detention case

Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate Mahmoud Khalil asked the United States Supreme Court on October 19, 2026, to take up his case. The Washington Examiner, PBS NewsHour, and the South China Morning Post reported that his lawyers filed papers asking the high court to overturn a lower court decision that prevents federal judges from reviewing immigration detentions before immigration proceedings are completed. [1][2][3]

PBS NewsHour reported that Khalil asked the Supreme Court to rule that federal judges can evaluate the legality of immigration detentions so individuals are not held for extended periods without judicial oversight. His appeal specifically challenges a decision made earlier this year by the 3rd United States Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia. The Washington Examiner noted that the lower court ruled federal judges cannot consider his claims until the immigration court process concludes. [1][2]

Khalil, a lawful permanent resident of the United States, was previously arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents after participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia University in the spring of 2024. The New York Times, PBS NewsHour, and the South China Morning Post noted that his case became a high profile point in President Donald Trump's administration's enforcement measures against foreign student demonstrators. [2][3][4]

Khalil served as a negotiator and spokesperson for the 2024 Gaza Solidarity Encampment at Columbia University while studying at the School of International and Public Affairs. He was previously held in custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement from March 8 to June 20, 2025, without being accused of a crime. His case has prompted legal challenges regarding due process rights and speech protections during immigration detentions. [13][15]