Former Egyptian Presidential Candidate Files $20 Million Claim Against Trump Administration

Mahmoud Khalil, a former Egyptian presidential candidate, has filed a $20 million claim against the Trump administration, alleging that he was wrongfully detained and mistreated by US authorities. Khalil, who was a candidate in Egypt’s 2018 presidential election, claims that he was detained by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents at Los Angeles International Airport in 2018. He alleges that he was subjected to physical and emotional abuse, including being handcuffed, strip-searched, and held in a cold cell without food or water. Khalil claims that he was detained for over 24 hours without being given a reason or being allowed to contact his lawyer. He also alleges that his phone and laptop were confiscated and that he was forced to sign a document waiving his rights. The claim, which was filed with the US Department of Homeland Security, alleges that Khalil’s detention was a result of his criticism of the Trump administration’s policies in the Middle East. Khalil has been an outspoken critic of the administration’s support for Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who has been accused of human rights abuses. The claim also alleges that Khalil’s detention was part of a broader pattern of targeting and intimidating critics of the Trump administration. Khalil’s lawyers argue that his detention was a violation of his rights under the US Constitution and international law. The Trump administration has not commented on the claim, but has previously denied allegations of wrongdoing in similar cases. Khalil’s case has sparked outrage among human rights groups and critics of the Trump administration, who argue that it is part of a larger effort to silence and intimidate opponents. The case has also raised questions about the use of detention and interrogation tactics by US authorities, particularly against individuals who are critical of the administration. Khalil’s claim is seeking $20 million in damages for his alleged mistreatment, as well as a formal apology from the Trump administration. The case is likely to be closely watched by human rights groups and critics of the administration, who will be monitoring the response of the US government to Khalil’s allegations. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the rights of individuals who are critical of the Trump administration, and could potentially set a precedent for future cases. In addition to his claim, Khalil has also called for an investigation into his detention and the treatment of other individuals who have been similarly detained. He has also urged the US government to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, including providing training to CBP agents on the rights of detainees. The case has sparked a wider debate about the use of detention and interrogation tactics by US authorities, and the need for greater transparency and accountability in the treatment of detainees.

Source