Jewish group defends activist’s rights amid deportation dispute

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The Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) has sparked controversy by criticizing the deportation of a Palestinian activist, claiming the action makes Jewish Americans more vulnerable.

Immigration authorities recently apprehended Mahmoud Khalil, who had been orchestrating controversial demonstrations and unauthorized encampments at Columbia University. These protests had taken an antisemitic turn, contributing to the eventual resignation of university president Minouche Shafik, though similar demonstrations have continued into the current academic year.

The Jewish Democratic Council of America
(JDCA), which purports to represent
Jewish points of view within the
Democratic party, claims President Donald Trump made Jews "less safe" by deporting an anti-Israel Palestinian. #MahmoudKhalil pic.twitter.com/yaR8bTgCGx

— BillyBob1972 🇺🇸 (@BillyRickiBob) March 16, 2025

JDCA’s CEO Halie Soifer sent out an email arguing against Khalil’s deportation proceedings, stating: “While we can vehemently disagree with one’s speech, that doesn’t mean it isn’t protected speech under the Constitution. In the case of Khalil, as a U.S. green card holder, he’s entitled to due process before deportation. Donald Trump’s effort to deny him that – and his threat to do the same to other pro-Palestinian protest organizers – is weaponizing antisemitism to potentially deny constitutionally protected speech. The use of antisemitism as an excuse to deny free speech is not good for our community, security, or democracy.”

BRENNAN: “Is there any evidence of a link to terrorism or is it just [Mahmoud Khalil’s] point of view?”@SecRubio: “You should watch the news. These guys take over entire buildings… They shut down colleges… We don’t need these people in our country.” 🔥 🔥 pic.twitter.com/3mGvpkx38k

— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 16, 2025

Soifer expressed concern about potential future implications, suggesting that while pro-Palestinian protesters might be the current target, others could face similar treatment later. She cautioned that supporting selective denial of protected rights could create dangerous precedents.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio responded by emphasizing that green card status doesn’t guarantee permanent residency rights, and suggested that Khalil’s initial entry might have been denied had his intended activities been known beforehand. Currently, Khalil remains in custody pending deportation proceedings.