White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reportedly announced that Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student, is set to be deported for allegedly “siding with terrorists.”
During a press conference, Leavitt emphasized that a crime is not necessary for the revocation of a green card, stating that individuals who oppose U.S. foreign policy and national security can be subject to deportation.
Khalil, a Syrian national of Palestinian descent, was arrested at Columbia’s campus after leading protests against U.S. support for Israel.
He had completed his studies in December and was preparing to participate in the graduation ceremony.
Leavitt described him as having abused the privilege of studying in the U.S. by allegedly aligning himself with Hamas, a group responsible for violence against civilians.
Leavitt also mentioned that the Trump administration provided Columbia University with a list of students, including Khalil, who reportedly expressed support for terrorist organizations.
She criticized the university for not cooperating with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in identifying these individuals, asserting that the administration expects compliance from educational institutions regarding national security policies.
As Khalil’s legal challenges unfold, a federal judge has temporarily blocked his deportation.
The situation raises concerns about Khalil’s potential return to Syria, which has become chaotic under the control of the terror group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham following the collapse of its previous government.
The case highlights the administration’s firm stance on immigration and national security, especially regarding individuals perceived as threats to U.S. interests.
Leavitt’s comments indicate a broader effort to address what the administration views as pro-terrorist sentiments within U.S. institutions.
[READ MORE: Trump Admin Warns Illegals They Should ‘Self-Deport’ Or Prepare to Face the Consequences]
