image sourced from original article at New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly supported Mahmoud Khalil, an anti-Israel activist facing deportation after a judge overturned a previous block on the Trump administration's efforts. Mamdani described Khalil's arrest as a threat to constitutional rights and called for his continued freedom, highlighting concerns over crackdowns on pro-Palestinian speech.
Khalil, an Algerian national and recent Columbia University graduate, has been linked to a student coalition endorsing controversial positions, including support for violence and distribution of propaganda. Despite these affiliations, Khalil has stated in interviews that he condemns attacks on civilians.
The move to deport Khalil is backed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who argues that his presence undermines efforts to combat antisemitism and protect Jewish students. Mayor Mamdani's support has drawn criticism from Jewish groups, who accuse him of tolerating violent rhetoric and antisemitism within his political circle.
