King’s College London (KCL) has confirmed that it will re‑enrol Egyptian student Usama Ghanem for the upcoming 2026‑27 academic year. The decision comes after the university’s review panel found no remaining breaches of its non‑academic misconduct policy, overturning an indefinite suspension that had put Ghanem’s visa sponsorship at risk.
Review finds no violations
In an email sent to Ghanem in late August, KCL stated that the conditions for his suspension had been met and that there was “no reason for your suspension or exclusion to remain in place.” The university also indicated it would begin the process of restoring his visa sponsorship, a step that must be approved by UK Visas & Immigration.
Background of the case
Ghanem, 22, was originally suspended in May 2024 after university officials alleged non‑academic misconduct related to his participation in student‑led protests calling for the liberation of the Palestinian people. The university cited alleged regulatory, procedural, health‑and‑safety, and operational concerns. Ghanem denied the allegations and maintained that his actions were lawful expressions of support for Palestinian rights.
The suspension triggered a potential revocation of his student visa, prompting Ghanem to remain in the United Kingdom out of safety concerns about returning to Egypt. He has continued legal action against KCL, alleging human‑rights violations, assault, personal injury, discrimination, and harassment.
University’s response
KCL spokesperson explained that the review was scheduled as standard procedure for non‑academic misconduct cases and that the panel determined Ghanem had satisfied the conditions set for his suspension. While the panel upheld the original allegations, it concluded that re‑enrolment was the appropriate outcome.
“We will always apply a fair approach to misconduct proceedings and have a duty to act where behaviour breaches safeguarding and security regulations,” the spokesperson said.
Legal and public context
The case has drawn attention from academics and advocacy groups who argue that universities are targeting Muslim students and students of color for lawful political expression. In June, a United Nations commission found that Israel was committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, a finding the Israeli government rejects.
Ghanem’s UK lawyer, Franck Magennis, praised the sustained legal and public efforts that led to the reversal, noting the decision sets a significant precedent for student‑rights cases involving political protest.
Next steps
KCL will notify UK Visas & Immigration of the change in Ghanem’s status, but the Home Office has not yet commented on the matter. The ongoing lawsuit will continue to address the alleged violations of Ghanem’s rights.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
