DHS fires back after Mahmoud Khalil targets Trump admin for $20M over detention
Pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil is suing the U.S. government for $20 million after being detained and targeted for deportation under the Trump administration.
According to a press release from the Center for Constitutional Rights, “Mr. Khalil is requesting $20 million, which he intends to use to support others who were similarly targeted by both the Trump administration and Columbia University. He would also accept, instead of the monetary amount, a formal apology and an end to the administration’s unconstitutional policy.”
The statement explained that the claim serves as a step toward a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration under the Federal Tort Claims Act, a 1946 law that permits individuals to seek damages from the U.S. government for civil legal violations.
While in detention earlier this year, Khalil missed the birth of his first child.
Khalil has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
“This is the beginning of holding people accountable. Nothing can make up for the 104 days that were taken from me, the trauma, being separated from my wife, missing the birth of my child. But let’s be clear, the same government that went after me for speaking out is using taxpayer funds to support Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza,” Khalil said in the press release.
Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, criticized Khalil in a statement.
“The idea that DHS officials labeled Khalil an antisemite and harassed him and his family is ridiculous. He was the one who intimidated Jewish students on campus. His own words and actions made him appear antisemitic,” McLaughlin said. “Living and studying in the U.S. with a visa or green card is a privilege. The Trump administration acted fully within its legal rights to detain Khalil, as it does with any noncitizen who supports violence, praises terrorists, harasses Jewish people, or causes property damage.”
A senior official at the State Department added, “This matter is under litigation. However, our stance remains that the actions taken against Mahmoud Khalil were lawful, factually supported, and necessary. It is our responsibility to use every legal method available to remove noncitizens who violate U.S. laws or pose a threat to public safety.”
