Pakistan, March 19 -- Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist, describes his detention in a US immigration facility as political persecution. Detained earlier this month after protesting for Palestinian rights, he considers himself a "political prisoner." A recent Columbia University graduate, he believes his activism led to his arrest.

In a letter from the ICE facility in Louisiana, Khalil condemned his treatment and highlighted injustices faced by detainees. He also criticised the US government's efforts to silence Palestinian voices. Khalil's arrest occurred without a warrant; agents approached him while he was walking home with his pregnant wife.

Khalil discussed the harsh conditions and experiences of fellow detainees, paint...