United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested a Palestinian activist and former Columbia University student, Mahmoud Khalil in connection with last year’s campus protests over the war in Gaza.
Khalil, a legal U.S. permanent resident, was detained at his university apartment, where ICE agents informed him that his green card had been revoked. His lawyer, Amy Greer, said that authorities provided no warrant or explanation for his detention, raising concerns about due process.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Khalil’s arrest was carried out under a recent executive order signed by President Trump targeting individuals allegedly supporting terrorist organizations.
DHS claimed Khalil was involved in activities “aligned to Hamas,” though no formal charges have been disclosed.
In a social media post, Secretary of State Marco Rubio reinforced the administration’s stance on revoking visas or green cards of individuals deemed supportive of Hamas.
Khalil played a key role in organizing pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia University, advocating for the university to divest from Israel. His supporters argue that the protests were peaceful and focused on seeking justice for Palestinian civilians, rejecting accusations of extremism.
The Trump administration, however, has taken a hard stance against such activism, citing concerns about antisemitism and national security threats.
Khalil’s arrest has sparked outrage among student activists and civil rights groups, who view the action as an attempt to suppress free speech and silence criticism of U.S. and Israeli policies. His pregnant wife, a U.S. citizen, was present during the arrest and remains in the U.S. while Khalil’s legal team works to determine his whereabouts and challenge his deportation.
Legal experts warn that this case could set a precedent for targeting activists based on their political beliefs. Khalil’s attorney insists that he was engaged in lawful protest and that his constitutional rights have been violated. She is preparing to challenge the government’s claims and fight for his right to remain in the U.S.
The incident underscores growing tensions over free speech, immigration policies, and the limits of political activism in the U.S. As the legal battle unfolds, Khalil’s case is expected to draw national and international attention.