Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University student, was arrested during pro-Palestinian protests. His legal residency and impending deportation due to his activism have raised concerns, particularly since he is expecting a child with his American wife. Khalil’s journey reflects the challenges faced by Syrian refugees and his commitment to education and activism.
Mahmoud Khalil is a Palestinian activist and legal US resident affiliated with Columbia University. His arrest occurred recently during pro-Palestinian protests, which President Trump labeled as antisemitic and anti-American. Khalil’s warnings highlight a broader strategy against student activists supporting Palestine, resulting in Khalil’s impending deportation threat despite his legal residency and marriage to an American citizen.
Born in a Palestinian refugee camp in Syria, Khalil entered the US in 2022 on a student visa and obtained permanent residency the following year. His educational journey faced disruption due to Syria’s civil war, which diverted his initial plans to study aviation engineering. In a 2017 essay, he reflected on the challenges of Syrian refugees escaping war-torn conditions.
To further his education, Khalil moved to Beirut, where he worked with a non-profit organization aiding Syrian children’s education and attended university, earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science. His wife, Noor Abdalla, whom he met through the non-profit in 2016, became his partner after seven years of long-distance dating and they married in New York in 2023.
Khalil also gained experience as a program manager at the British embassy’s Syria Office in Beirut, managing the Syria Chevening Program, a prestigious scholarship initiative. His professionalism drew praise from colleagues, including former British diplomat Andrew Waller, who characterized him as kind, thoughtful, and intelligent.
Recently, Khalil completed his master’s from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and is expecting a child with his wife in April 2024. Abdalla expressed profound concern over the emotional ramifications of Khalil’s arrest, stating it would be devastating for them to face the birth of their child under such circumstances.
Mahmoud Khalil is a prominent Palestinian activist studying at Columbia University who recently faced arrest amid pro-Palestinian protests. His background includes overcoming significant challenges in Syria, Education in Beirut, and a legal life in the US. Khalil faces potential deportation and a personal crisis as he and his wife prepare to welcome their first child, signifying a critical moment in both his activism and family life.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
