Activist asks Supreme Court to speed up review of immigration detentions

Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to let federal judges promptly assess the legality of immigration-related detentions, according to Newsday. Khalil's request aims to prevent individuals from being held for extended periods without judicial oversight.

Khalil, a lawful permanent resident detained last year due to his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, spent over three months in detention before a federal judge in New Jersey ordered his release, as reported by Newsday. The government had argued his presence harmed U.S. foreign policy interests.

The activist wants the Supreme Court to overturn a ruling by the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that federal courts lack jurisdiction to review detentions until immigration courts complete their process. Khalil said the appeal concerns the rights of thousands of immigrants to challenge what he calls unlawful government actions.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security stated the Trump administration acted within its legal authority regarding Khalil's case, emphasizing that obtaining a visa or green card is a privilege. Khalil's case highlights ongoing tensions over immigration detention procedures.