Only 14 Democrats Sign Letter Demanding Mahmoud Khalil’s Release

Washington (Quds News Network)- Only 14 Democratic lawmakers signed a letter urging the release of Mahmoud Khalil, an anti-genocide Palestinian activist and U.S. green card holder. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) detained him without charges for his activism at Columbia University.

“We are horrified by the illegal abduction and indefinite detention of Mahmoud Khalil,” the letter states. It demands his release from DHS custody.

The letter, addressed to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, condemns the action. “Khalil has not been charged or convicted of any crime. As the Trump administration proudly admits, he was targeted solely for his activism,” it reads.

Representatives Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, Mark Pocan, Ayanna Pressley, Nydia M. Velázquez, Delia C. Ramirez, Jasmine rocket, Summer Lee, Lateefah Simon, Gwen S. Moore, Nikema Williams, Al Green, Andre Carson, and Jams McGovem signed the letter. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez did not sign, despite previously criticizing Khalil’s arrest.

Khalil was abducted on March 8 at Columbia University housing by plainclothes DHS agents. His pregnant wife was reportedly threatened during the arrest. DHS moved him over 1,300 miles away to an ICE facility in Louisiana, initially refusing to disclose his location.

“This is an attempt to criminalize political protest and directly assaults free speech,” the letter warns. It describes Khalil as a political prisoner and calls his arrest a tactic to silence pro-Palestinian activism.

U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled more arrests may follow. “This is the first of many,” he reportedly said. Critics argue that the administration is setting a dangerous precedent.

Supporters say Khalil should be home preparing for his child’s birth, not detained without due process. “This lawless abuse of power threatens all Americans,” the letter states.

The lawmakers demand his immediate release and call for universities to protect students from similar government actions and protect their right to free speech. “DHS must immediately stop illegal arrests targeting constitutionally protected speech,” they conclude.