Key Takeaways:
- Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and recent Columbia University graduate, was detained by immigration officers.
- Khalil was a key figure in protests against Israel’s war in Gaza.
- His arrest comes after President Trump vowed to deport foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
- Columbia University faces a $400 million funding cut for allegedly not protecting Jewish students.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and recent Columbia University graduate, on Saturday. Khalil was a leader in protests against Israel’s war in Gaza, which began after the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The Student Workers of Columbia union confirmed his detention and expressed concern over ICE agents accessing campus buildings, including dorms.
Why Was Mahmoud Khalil Targeted?
Khalil was one of the main organizers of Columbia’s Gaza solidarity encampment last spring. The protests, which included occupying campus buildings and disrupting lectures, drew attention nationwide. While some demonstrations turned violent, Khalil became a prominent voice for students opposing Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The arrest has sparked outrage among students and supporters. A petition calling for Khalil’s release has gathered thousands of signatures. At the time of his arrest, Khalil was a permanent resident of the U.S., which has raised questions about the legality of his detention.
President Trump recently criticized pro-Palestinian student protests, threatening to deport foreign students involved. He also warned universities to crack down on what he called anti-Semitism or face funding cuts.
Columbia University’s Response
Columbia University has not directly commented on Khalil’s arrest. However, the university acknowledged reports of ICE agents near campus. In a statement, Columbia said it would follow the law and require judicial warrants for law enforcement to enter non-public university areas.
The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment.
Trump’s Backlash Against Pro-Palestinian Protests
President Trump has been vocal about the student protests linked to the Gaza conflict. He promised to deport foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Trump also threatened universities, saying they must do more to combat anti-Semitism on campuses.
Just last Friday, the Trump administration announced it would cut $400 million in federal grants to Columbia University. The reason given was the university’s alleged failure to protect Jewish students from harassment.
What’s Next?
The situation at Columbia University reflects the broader tensions on U.S. campuses since the October 7 attack. Student protests have sparked debates about free speech, anti-Semitism, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the investigation into Khalil’s arrest continues, supporters are calling for his release and questioning the motivations behind his detention. The case has also raised concerns about immigration enforcement on college campuses and the targeting of student activists.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.