Pro-Palestinian Protester Sues Columbia University, Citing Anti-Palestinian Bias

A pro-Palestinian activist, Mahmoud Khalil, who was detained by immigration authorities for 104 days, has filed a lawsuit against Columbia University and its Dean of the School of International and Public Affairs, Keren Yarhi-Milo. Khalil alleges systematic discrimination against Palestinian students, neglect of harassment, and preferential treatment for other students. He is seeking damages, reinstatement to campus, and the restoration of the "Palestine Working Group." The lawsuit claims Columbia failed to protect group members from harassment and "doxxing," while imposing restrictions on pro-Palestinian activities. Khalil specifically accused Yarhi-Milo of prioritizing Israel over her students, stating, "Her priority was never her students. Her priority was always Israel." He further alleged that after the October 7th attacks, Columbia presented a "false narrative" about the protests, suspended pro-Palestinian student organizations, and employed surveillance and private investigators. Khalil also claimed the university prioritized the protection of certain students over others and attempted to prevent students from reading the names of deceased Palestinian children. He demanded the dismissal of Yarhi-Milo and a change in how the "Palestinian liberation movement on campus" is documented. However, a Jewish student testified in prior proceedings that Khalil had expressed concern for Yarhi-Milo's safety and condemned the Hamas attack and violence. Columbia University stated it is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and addressing discrimination and harassment. Yarhi-Milo previously issued a statement condemning unlawful detention and supporting free speech for Khalil after his arrest in March 2025. Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident and graduate student, was arrested by immigration agents and faced potential deportation under the Trump administration, though he was not charged with any criminal offense related to the protests. He was released in June 2025, but his legal battle continues. New York City Mayor Eric Adams has become a prominent political supporter of Khalil, advocating for the cancellation of his immigration proceedings and hosting him and his family. The lawsuit touches upon the broader debate regarding the line between criticism of Israel and anti-Semitism, and whether the fight against anti-Semitism is being used to silence pro-Palestinian activism.