Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist at Columbia University, was detained by ICE officials amid efforts to revoke his visa and green card. His attorney plans to challenge the legality of the detainment, which adheres to new federal policies targeting anti-Israel protestors. The detention raises concerns over free speech and has led to the cancellation of substantial federal funding to Columbia University.
A Palestinian student activist at Columbia University, Mahmoud Khalil, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials at his Manhattan residence. Khalil, who previously led anti-Israel demonstrations, is facing visa revocation as mandated by the State Department, according to his attorney, Amy Greer. Despite being a permanent legal resident, ICE is reportedly also attempting to revoke his green card.
Greer has indicated that they will defend Khalil’s rights legally and described the action as an egregious violation against him. The detention of green card holders without serious criminal charges is considered unusual, as revoking such status typically involves a protracted legal process due to prior vetting for residency and eventual citizenship.
In a statement on social media, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the revocation of visas for Hamas supporters in the United States, linking to the situation surrounding Khalil. Additionally, Columbia University has expressed its intent to comply with federal requirements while affirming its commitment to civil rights among its student body.
This arrest may signal a broader effort by federal authorities to fulfill the Trump administration’s pledge to expel international students involved in anti-Israel protests. It has been noted that Jewish students reported experiencing harassment during such events, prompting the Department of Homeland Security’s involvement, which characterized Khalil’s activities as aligned with Hamas, a recognized terrorist organization.
The Trump administration has also taken punitive measures against Columbia University, including the cancellation of $400 million in federal funding, as a response to perceived institutional inaction against anti-Semitism, suggesting further consequences may arise. Critics, like Murad Awawdeh of the New York Immigration Coalition, condemned this initiative, arguing it undermines constitutional protections for free speech.
In summary, Mahmoud Khalil’s detention by ICE brings attention to the contentious intersection of immigration law and political activism at higher education institutions. The incident highlights the potential repercussions for international students involved in politically charged protests, reflecting ongoing tensions regarding free speech and institutional responses to anti-Semitism. These developments may signal a shift in federal approaches to student activists in the United States.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
