Federal immigration agents have arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and former Columbia University graduate student, known for leading last year’s pro-Palestinian protests on campus. ICE agents detained Khalil at his New York apartment after the State Department revoked his green card, alleging ties to Hamas and anti-Israel activities.
Khalil’s lawyer, Amy Greer, condemned the arrest, citing the absence of a judicial warrant and difficulty locating him post-detention. Civil rights groups denounced the move as a violation of free speech, emphasizing that his wife, who is eight months pregnant, was not informed of the reasons behind his arrest.
This action aligns with President Trump’s broader crackdown on foreign student activists and anti-Israel protests. Columbia University, recently scrutinized for allegedly tolerating anti-Semitism, has pledged to comply with legal obligations while supporting its students.
Khalil’s detention has sparked national debate over immigration enforcement, civil liberties, and academic freedom. His legal team is demanding transparency, while supporters have launched petitions calling for his release. The case continues to unfold, drawing widespread attention.
