NYC Protests Demand Release of Columbia Graduate Mahmoud Khalil Amid Hamas Allegations and Trump Crackdown

Hundreds of demonstrators have rallied across New York City, including on March 11, to protest the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and recent Columbia University graduate. Khalil was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on March 8, with his green card revoked due to allegations of supporting Hamas. Protests have included marches through Lower Manhattan, sit-ins at Columbia University, a walkout at Barnard College, and gatherings at Federal Plaza and Washington Square Park. Demonstrators have called for ICE to cease operations on college campuses and demanded Khalil's immediate release. Arrests were reported at Washington Square and during other protest activities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has accused Khalil of distributing pro-Hamas propaganda and leading activities aligned with Hamas, which Khalil's supporters reject as politically motivated. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the administration is revoking visas and green cards of individuals accused of supporting Hamas. A U.S. district judge has temporarily halted Khalil's deportation as legal proceedings continue. The protests have led to clashes with the NYPD, resulting in multiple arrests. Khalil's case has drawn attention to activism and immigration enforcement on college campuses, with the Trump administration emphasizing a crackdown on alleged pro-Hamas activities.