Freedom of speech advocates highlight that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) alleged Khalil’s involvement in activities connected to Hamas, which is classified as a terrorist organization. Nonetheless, it is noted that these allegations lack concrete evidence. US law explicitly prohibits giving “material support” to terrorist organizations, and critics point out that the basis for Khalil’s arrest was excessively vague and could be unjustly applied to anyone deemed critical of Israel or US foreign policy.

Will Creeley, legal director of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), suggests that the arrest’s rationale has created a loophole that could stifle free speech, leading to self-censorship among individuals who may fear government reprisal for expressing dissent. This strategy aligns with Project 2025, a conservative policy initiative proposed by the Heritage Foundation, wherein pro-Palestinian activism is deemed a part of what they call a “highly organized, global Hamas Support Network (HSN)” – effectively labeling such protests as a form of terrorist Support.

Representatives allege that ICE agents informed Khalil’s family that they would revoke his student visa when, in fact, he holds a green card as a lawful permanent resident of the US. ICE’s apparent misinterpretation of Khalil’s status and their decision to possibly revoke his green card raise questions about the validity of their actions, as there appears to be no evidence of criminal activity. This move to distant detention facilities, as agents suggested he was transferred to Louisiana, is seen as a psychological tool to disorient and isolate detainees.

Legal advocacy is ongoing, with a federal court scheduled to examine Khalil’s detention case.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2025/3/11/a-dangerous-moment-advocates-denounce-arrest-of-activist-mahmoud-khalil?traffic_source=rss