Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian student activist, has filed a wrongful detention claim against the administration of President Donald Trump, seeking $20m in damages. The claim alleges that the Trump administration smeared Khalil’s reputation, maliciously prosecuted him, and unlawfully imprisoned him.
Khalil, a former student at Columbia University, was arrested in March 2025 and held in detention for over three months. His arrest was part of a broader crackdown by the Trump administration on student protesters, whom Trump described as “anti-Semitic” and “radical.” Khalil’s lawyers argue that the administration’s actions were a clear attempt to silence him and suppress his advocacy for Palestinian rights.
The claim names the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Department of State as defendants. Khalil’s lawyers plan to use any money he receives from his claim to help other activists whose speech Trump has attempted to suppress.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Khalil said, “They are abusing their power because they think they are untouchable. Unless they feel there is some sort of accountability, it will continue to go unchecked.” Khalil’s claim is likely to be the precursor to a full-fledged lawsuit under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
The Trump administration had accused Khalil of anti-Semitism and supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. However, Khalil and his legal team argue that the administration’s actions were a clear violation of his constitutional rights to free speech.
Khalil’s arrest and detention sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for his release and an end to the Trump administration’s crackdown on dissent. On June 20, a judge in New Jersey ordered Khalil’s release, and he was finally freed after missing the birth of his first child while incarcerated.
Khalil’s case highlights the Trump administration’s efforts to suppress activism and dissent, particularly among pro-Palestinian activists. As Khalil said in an interview, “I’m one of the lucky ones who are able to advocate for the rights of Palestinians, the folks who are getting killed back in Palestine.” Khalil’s determination to continue speaking out for Palestinian rights is a testament to his commitment to activism and free speech.