For generations, America has been separated from other parts of the world as an immigrant nation, but it is also a country of values.
Unlike Europe, where ethnic and religious minorities often separate from the broader society socially and politically, the American model of assimilation has long been based on simple but powerful expectations. America welcomes newcomers, but they must respect and embrace the fundamental principles that define it, such as the rule of law, individual freedom, and democratic governance.
When immigrants reject these principles and support groups against American freedom, it challenges the very foundations of the nation's values and legal framework. This is not a theoretical argument – it is unfolding now Mahmoud KhalilColumbia University activists are seeking to deport the government due to alleged support for Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
Khalil's case is not just an immigration law, but a test of America's resolve to enforce the obligations associated with permanent residence. The laws and policies are clear. Immigrants must adhere to them, and the government must enforce them in accordance with legitimate procedures and legal decisions. This is the foundation of what defines America.
From the moment immigrants arrive in the United States, there is an implicit agreement. Countries offer unparalleled safety, opportunity and freedom in much of the world. In return, those who wish to stay must respect the fundamental values of law and pluralistic democracy.
America does not require immigrants to abandon their heritage, religion, or cultural identity. The country thrives because of diversity in background and perspectives. However, diversity without a shared citizen foundation leads to fragmentation. The US model has always relied on citizens' assimilation. The idea is to accept the responsibility of being part of this society no matter where you come from.
Critics argue that revoking Halil's green card violates freedom of speech. However, freedom of speech does not mean freedom from the outcome and does not cover material support for terrorism. under 8 USC 1182non-citizens are unacceptable and removable if they are “supporting or supporting the activities of terrorists” or belonging to an organization that is engaged in.
Halil's affiliation Columbia University Apartheid sellsthe group that openly celebrated the Hamas-led massacre on October 7, 2023 is not just a political protest. Columbia University's apartheid dibust went beyond advocacy and explicitly approved “armed resistance.” This is a direct violation of US immigration law. Halil himself Recognised He avoided the appearance of the media to protect his visa status – a sign that he understood the legal risks of his actions.
This is not a discussion of political dissent. It's about whether America must tolerate individuals who actively support organizations dedicated to terrorism and the destruction of democratic society.
Jonathan Turleya law professor at George Washington University said, “The question is, what the standard is. They are allowed to protest, and they are allowed to use free speech. What they are not allowed to do is support terrorist organizations, spread terrorist information, threaten Jewish students, certainly occupy buildings and not destroy property.”
If the US fails to force its expectations of assimilation, there is a risk of repeating European mistakes. In Europe, radical enclaves have been formed due to weak enforcement of national values. Both France and the UK are learning the toughest way that failing to confront extremist ideology among immigrants leads to long-term security risks.
France, 2020 I was exiled After the beheading of teacher Samuel Patty by 231 radical immigrants of foreign extremists. In 2022, France deported Moroccan Imams Hassan Ikiussen To preach the rhetoric of anti-Semitism, anti-women and extremists. France's Minister of Home Affairs I made that clear: Residency is not a right. It is subject to respecting the laws and values of the country.
In 2013, the UK was deported Abukatadaan extreme clergy who is said to have ties to al-Qaeda after years of legal battles. Anjem ChoudaryThose who influenced the jihadist attacks in the UK were found guilty of supporting ISIS. Even citizenship proved that it would not protect those who violated national security laws.
The legal basis for Khalil's deportation already exists if he is deemed responsible. There is no need to wipe out new policies or executive orders. US law already requires immigrants to reject terrorism and maintain democratic values. If Halil is actively supporting Hamas, his deportation is not only justified, but necessary. Failure to act will undermine the integrity of US immigration law and national security.
The Halil incident is a critical moment for US immigration policy. America must adhere to a tradition of welcoming immigrants who embrace that value. On the other hand, it must protect the basic freedom from those who are trying to undermine them. Preservation of civil assimilation is essential to prevent the formation of fundamental enclaves that Europe has struggled to manage.
There is nothing extreme about enforcing existing laws. America is built on the rule of law, not selective enforcement. Assimilation is not about erasing one's identity, but about respecting the shared values that make the nation function. If the US cannot maintain this standard, there is a risk that the law is optional and that its basic principles will become a negotiable country.
Respect for the law is not a partisan issue. It is the foundation of American democracy. The government must ensure legitimate procedures and impose consequences when violations occur. It's not intolerance. That's justice. If the United States abandons these principles, it is not a more inclusive nation. It's just a weak country.
Edited by Ron McCammon, a retired US Special Forces Colonel and former political officer at the US Embassy in Kabul, oversees the State Department's largest humanitarian and subtle deminning program. He writes extensively about security, governance and international issues.
