New York City, NY — Mahmoud Khalil, a notable Palestinian activist recognized for his leadership during the 2024 Columbia University student protests, was apprehended Saturday night by federal immigration officials. The arrest occurred at his residence near Columbia’s Manhattan campus, and according to Khalil’s attorney, Amy Greer, was executed under a directive from the State Department to withdraw his green card.
During the incident, agents relayed to Greer via phone that the initial intent was to revoke Khalil’s student visa but shifted upon discovering he was a permanent resident. Greer further claimed the agents also threatened the arrest of Khalil’s wife, an American citizen who is eight months pregnant.
In a response provided to the media, the Department of Homeland Security cited the arrest as aligned with executive orders aimed at preventing anti-Semitism, accusing Khalil of leading activities supportive of Hamas, though no specific allegations or charges were detailed.
Following the arrest, Khalil’s whereabouts became uncertain. Initially thought to be at an immigration detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey, his presence there could not be confirmed during a visit by his wife the following day, sparking concerns he might have been transferred elsewhere, possibly as far as Louisiana.
Amy Greer exclaimed in a statement her intent to “vigorously” fight for Khalil’s rights in court, condemning the action as a wrongful abuse of power. This arrest comes in the wake of President Trump’s promise to deport foreign students and incarcerate protest agitators, particularly focusing on Columbia University after it was announced that the institution would face a $400 million cut in grants and contracts due to perceived inadequacies in handling antisemitism on campus.
Columbia University responded to the heightened law enforcement presence on campus by stating that any entry into non-public university property by law enforcement requires a judicial warrant, a policy aligned with practices nationwide.
Khalil was a visible figure in the student-led protests at Columbia, urging resistance against the university’s investments associated with Israeli operations. His arrest has fueled discussions on campus and concern among students about broader implications for free speech and civil advocacy.
One student expressed dismay at the news during class, reflecting on the perceived nationwide challenge to freedom of speech and the potential for widespread public reaction supportive of Khalil.
Immigration attorney Naresh M. Gehi criticized the handling of Khalil’s case, arguing it violated due process and expressing shock over the illegality of detaining a green card holder who had not been criminally charged.
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