Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and recent graduate of Columbia University, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Saturday night (March 8) at his university-owned apartment in New York. Khalil, known for leading protests demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, was apprehended as part of President Donald Trump's crackdown on what he calls illegal campus protests.

ICE agents acted on a State Department order to revoke Khalil's green card, citing his alleged involvement in activities aligned with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. Khalil's attorney, Amy Greer, stated that his arrest is part of a broader effort by the U.S. government to suppress student activism and political speech, especially targeting pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Khalil, who is married to a U.S. citizen and is a lawful permanent resident, was reportedly transferred to an immigration detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

The arrest follows President Trump's executive orders aimed at prohibiting anti-Semitism and deporting foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. The administration has also announced a cut of $400 million in grants and contracts to Columbia University, criticizing the school's handling of antisemitism on campus.

Columbia University has been a focal point for protests against Israel's actions in Gaza, with Khalil playing a significant role in organizing demonstrations. The university confirmed the presence of ICE agents on campus but emphasized its commitment to protecting students' legal rights. The New York Civil Liberties Union condemned Khalil's arrest, describing it as a "frightening escalation" by the Trump administration.

Mike Russell