Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist at Columbia University, was arrested by agents of the Trump administration during a crackdown on pro-Palestinian protests. He is a legal resident, married to Noor Abdalla, and faces potential deportation. Khalil has a background in social work and advocacy for Syrian children, and he and Abdalla are expecting a child.
Mahmoud Khalil is a prominent Palestinian activist at Columbia University, who was recently arrested by federal agents during the Trump administration. Khalil, a legal resident of the United States, is married to Noor Abdalla, a New York-based dentist. Donald Trump characterized the pro-Palestinian protests that Khalil spearheaded as antisemitic, citing them as part of a broader crackdown on student activists nationwide, indicating that Khalil’s situation could lead to deportation.
Born in a Palestinian refugee camp in Syria, Khalil left for the United States in 2022 on a student visa and gained permanent residency last year. His career path included working as a social worker in Syria, where he dealt with the repercussions of the civil war, which halted his initial educational aspirations in aviation engineering. He later moved to Beirut, engaging in a non-profit focused on education for Syrian children, where he also completed a degree in computer science.
Khalil’s marriage to Noor Abdalla, whom he met through a volunteer program, took place in New York in 2023 after a seven-year long-distance relationship. He has also served as a program manager at the British embassy in Beirut, contributing significantly to the Syria Chevening Program. A former diplomat praised him as a thoughtful and intelligent individual.
Khalil completed his master’s studies at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs in December but has yet to receive his diploma. He and his wife are anticipating the arrival of their first child in April. Abdalla expressed her concerns regarding Khalil’s potential absence during this crucial time, fearing the emotional impact of separation during their child’s birth.
Mahmoud Khalil’s case highlights the complexities of political activism and immigration status in the U.S. His journey from a refugee in Syria to an advocate in America underscores the profound personal challenges faced by many activists. As he and his wife prepare for their first child, the stakes of his arrest resonate deeply, illustrating the intersection of personal, political, and societal issues.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
