Trump Admin Reacts to Mahmoud Khalil's $20 Million Lawsuit Against DHS
Newsweek1 day
Detained Activist Mahmoud Khalil Seeks $20M From Trump Administration
Above: Mahmoud Khalil at a press conference on June 22, 2025 in New York City. Image copyright: KENA BETANCUR/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The Trump administration rightfully detained a dangerous activist who terrorized Jewish students and supported Hamas. Khalil's campus activities created a hostile environment for Jewish students and undermined America's foreign policy interests in the Middle East. The government acted within its legal authority to protect national security and combat antisemitism on college campuses.
Democratic narrative
This case represents a chilling attack on First Amendment rights and peaceful protest. Khalil was detained without criminal charges for exercising his constitutional right to criticize U.S. foreign policy and advocate for Palestinian rights. The administration's actions constitute political retaliation designed to silence dissent and intimidate activists.