Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate student, was arrested by ICE, prompting protests at the university. Khalil, who had previously led anti-Israel demonstrations, is facing deportation under new policies targeting alleged Hamas sympathizers. His attorney claims his detention is unjust, while public demonstrations are being organized in support of Khalil.
Protests have erupted at Columbia University following the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian graduate student and activist. Khalil was apprehended by ICE officials at his residence, coinciding with threats from the Trump administration to revoke visas and green cards of individuals purportedly supporting Hamas. Khalil has been a key figure in anti-Israel demonstrations at Columbia University previously.
On Saturday night, federal immigration authorities detained Khalil, who is a permanent U.S. resident, at his university-owned apartment. His attorney reported that Khalil is currently held at an immigration facility in New Jersey. The ICE agents allegedly warned of possible arrest for Khalil’s pregnant wife, who is an American citizen. His ongoing legal status remains uncertain.
Khalil, born in Syria in 1995 and an active participant in pro-Palestinian initiatives at Columbia, received his undergraduate education in Beirut and completed a graduate degree at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs. His role in student negotiations over protests last spring has made him a notable activist, attracting scrutiny and calls from pro-Israel groups for deportation.
The controversy surrounding Khalil is exacerbated by disciplinary investigations initiated against various students for their pro-Palestinian activism, including allegations tied to their involvement with the Columbia University Apartheid Divest group. The university is reportedly pursuing charges against Khalil related to organizing unauthorized events that supported Hamas and disseminating social media content critical of Zionism.
This arrest marks the initiation of a deportation campaign targeting individuals associated with Hamas sympathies amid President Trump’s recent directives following the October 7 terrorist attacks. The President’s strategy includes the cancellation of funding to Columbia University concerning its management of anti-Semitism on campus.
In response, Columbia University reassured its commitment to legal obligations and the rights of its students. Khalil’s legal representation emphasized their determination to fight for his rights in court, condemning the circumstances of his arrest as unjust and premeditated.
Public demonstrations are scheduled to continue, with activists urging participation to support Khalil’s release. Notably, at 4 p.m., a protest will take place at the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building, while faculty members from Columbia and Barnard will hold a press conference at 5 p.m. to denounce Khalil’s detention.
The arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate student, has sparked significant protests and controversy. As the first public deportation effort under President Trump’s new policy, Khalil’s case highlights the tension surrounding pro-Palestinian activism and immigration enforcement. Advocates aim to mobilize public support for Khalil’s rights while university officials assert their commitment to legal standards. The situation continues to evolve with scheduled protests and media attention.
Original Source: www.fox5ny.com
