A federal appeals court has temporarily blocked the re-detention and deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a 31-year-old pro-Palestinian activist and U.S. green card holder, while his legal team prepares to petition the Supreme Court.

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals issued the stay on Tuesday, giving Khalil a temporary reprieve as his broader legal fight over detention and immigration status continues. The decision prevents his removal from the United States while he seeks Supreme Court review of his case.

Khalil is a former Columbia University graduate student who has been the subject of deportation efforts. The appeals court ruling allows him additional time to challenge these proceedings through the federal court system.

The temporary stay represents the latest development in ongoing legal proceedings involving Khalil's immigration status. His legal team is now expected to file a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court seeking further review of his detention case.

The case involves questions of immigration enforcement and detention policies. Khalil holds a green card, which typically grants permanent resident status in the United States, though certain legal circumstances can still result in deportation proceedings for permanent residents.