A federal judge on Friday ordered the release of pro-Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate Mahmoud Khalil from an immigration detention center in Louisiana.

"I'm going to exercise the discretion that I have to order the release of the petitioner in this case," U.S. District Judge Michael Farbiaz said in a New Jersey courtroom.

Farbiaz ruled that Khalil “is not a danger to the community. Period, full stop.”

Khalil, a Palestinian-Syrian green card holder, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 8 at his student housing unit. His arrest was tied to his leadership role in pro-Palestinian student activism.

A video of the detainment went viral, with many Americans viewing Khalil not only as a hero for constitutional rights, but also as a symbol of advocacy for the country's 4.5 million Muslims.

While Khalil has not been accused of violating any laws, U.S. Secretary of State Marcio Rubio labeled him a national security threat. He cited the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which grants discretion to federal officials in determining whether an individual poses such a threat.

While an order for his release has been called, it is unclear when he will be released.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.