IABA Expresses Deep Concern Over the Arrest of Mahmoud Khalil and Supports CCR Lawsuit

The Iranian American Bar Association is deeply alarmed by the arrest, detention, and attempted deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a legal permanent resident of the United States with no criminal record. Mr. Khalil’s detention was based on his activities in participating in protests against the Israel-Palestine war and as a lead negotiator for the Gaza solidarity encampment at Columbia University last year, raising serious concerns about due process violations, government overreach, and the erosion of constitutional protections for immigrant communities, especially those taking political positions with which the government disagrees.

As a legal permanent resident, Mr. Khalil is entitled to the full legal protections guaranteed under the Constitution, including the fundamental rights to due process, freedom of speech, and associational rights, as well as protection against arbitrary detention. Mr. Khalil’s removability charge is based on a rarely used foreign policy provision, which allows deportation if the “Secretary of State has reasonable ground to believe would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States is deportable.” 8 USC 1227(a)(4)(c). This sets a dangerous precedent that is alarming for immigrant and minority communities who may already face disproportionate legal scrutiny.  Such a dangerous precedent is even more concerning given that, in court proceedings to date, the government has been unable to identify any activities by Mr. Khalil that constitute any violation of law.

IABA supports the lawsuit filed by the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR), which challenges Mr. Khalil’s detention and demands accountability for potential civil rights violations. We commend the CCR’s efforts to uphold the rule of law and to ensure that Mr. Khalil receives fair treatment under the legal system.

IABA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for justice and ensuring that no individual—regardless of their nationality or immigration status—is subjected to unlawful detention, discrimination, or violation of their constitutional rights.