Mahmoud Khalil, recently released from 104 days in immigration custody, spoke out about his detention conditions and criticized Columbia University for their perceived hypocrisy regarding support for international students. Khalil, a Palestinian and graduate student at Columbia, held a press conference outside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, where he articulated his identity as a human rights defender, freedom fighter, and father. His detention occurred amid heightened scrutiny of pro-Palestinian activists following Hamas’s attacks on Israel on October 7, which resulted in significant casualties and sparked a war in Gaza.
Khalil described the realities of life in the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility, emphasizing the lack of privacy and overwhelming uncertainty faced by detainees, all while rallying support from friends, family, and hundreds of attendees at the conference. He recounted how a mantra he carved into his bunk, “I believe that we will win,” kept his spirit alive during his time in custody.
Despite his release by a federal judge, who deemed him not a threat, the Trump administration appealed the decision, further complicating his situation. Khalil expressed gratitude for his freedom but underscored the ongoing struggle for justice and the chilling effect such detentions have on activist movements. He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for Palestinian liberation, calling on students to rise boldly in defense of their beliefs.
His wife, Noor Abdalla, emphasized their family’s resilience, stating that their spirit remains unbroken despite the hardships faced. Acknowledging the repression he endured, Khalil urged students to continue leading the fight for justice, invoking historical parallels with past social movements against oppression. After addressing supporters, he participated in a march, emphasizing unity and determination in the face of adversity.
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