NYC Protest Erupts After Arrest of Palestinian Activist

On Monday, hundreds of protesters rallied in New York City demanding the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, who was arrested by federal immigration agents. A federal judge intervened, ordering Khalil to remain in the U.S. to preserve court jurisdiction while a challenge to his arrest is considered. A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday.

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-03/250310-nyc-protest-mahmoud-khalil-ac-530p-4ee4d2.jpg" alt="Mahmoud Khalil protest">

The Arrest and the Fallout

Khalil was arrested for allegedly supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. Authorities said the arrest was in support of President Trump’s executive orders prohibiting anti-Semitism. However, Khalil's attorney, Amy Greer, stated that ICE was informed that Khalil is a permanent resident with a green card but detained him anyway. The arrest sparked outrage, with the People’s Forum organizing a rally at Federal Plaza with chants like “Free, free Palestine” and “ICE off our campus now.”

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Accusations and Reactions

President Trump claimed this was the "first arrest of many to come," alleging pro-terrorist activity on college campuses nationwide. No evidence was provided. Columbia University issued a statement that law enforcement needs a judicial warrant to enter campus buildings. The New York ACLU called the arrest a “gross violation of his constitutional rights,” and other groups echoed concerns about free speech violations. Khalil's wife, a U.S. citizen who is eight months pregnant, has been unable to visit him at an undisclosed detention facility, though the Department of Homeland Security website states he is being held at an immigration detention facility in Jena, Louisiana. A petition with over 900,000 signatures demands his release.

Ongoing Controversy

The incident highlights a complex debate about free speech, political activism, and the treatment of Palestinian advocates in the U.S. The case is now a legal battle, and the protests signal the widespread concern and outrage surrounding Khalil's arrest and the implications for similar student activists.