Hundreds of protesters gathered in New York City to demand the release of Columbia University graduate and pro-Palestine activist Mahmoud Khalil after he was arrested by Homeland Security agents late Saturday evening.
Khalil, a Palestinian student and US green card holder, was taken from his home in front of his pregnant wife, with authorities citing a revoked student visa. However, many see his arrest as a politically motivated crackdown on pro-Palestinian advocacy on US campuses. Khalil’s lawyer argues that his arrest is a clear violation of free speech protections.
His case comes after threats from US President Donald Trump to arrest, deport, or deny visas to students engaging in Palestinian advocacy. The administration has openly signaled an intent to silence dissent on US campuses, and many fear Khalil’s detention is only the beginning.
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