ICE Arrests Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil, a Green Card Holder, Amid Trump's Crackdown and NYC Protests

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and recent Columbia University graduate, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents over the weekend. Khalil, who holds a green card, was detained for his role in leading pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University, which have been part of a broader movement against Israel's actions in Gaza. President Donald Trump has described Khalil's arrest as the first of many in his administration's crackdown on anti-Israel activists. The arrest has sparked widespread protests in New York City, with hundreds of demonstrators demanding Khalil's release. Protesters have marched through the city, chanting for justice and against the revocation of Khalil's green card. The demonstrations have led to multiple arrests as tensions rise between protesters and law enforcement. Khalil is currently held in ICE custody in Louisiana. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed Khalil's arrest and indicated that the administration is considering revoking the green cards of individuals supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. Khalil has been accused of distributing Hamas propaganda and leading the Columbia encampment movement, actions that the administration claims jeopardized the safety of Jewish students on campus. Khalil's case has raised questions about the protections available to foreign students and green card holders against deportation. His lawyers are challenging his detention, arguing that it violates his First Amendment rights. A federal judge has ordered that Khalil not be deported while the court considers his case. Khalil, whose wife is eight months pregnant, is scheduled to appear in immigration court on March 21. The U.S. Department of Education has warned 60 universities of potential enforcement actions if they fail to protect Jewish students on campus.