March 14, 2025
Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil's Arrest by ICE Sparks Outrage
The recent arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has ignited a wave of protests and social media backlash. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) released a video showing Khalil being detained by ICE agents, which has further fueled public outcry.
Khalil, a lawful permanent resident of the United States, was taken into custody at his university-owned apartment in New York. The video, recorded by his wife Noor Abdalla, shows ICE agents handcuffing Khalil and leading him away without identifying themselves. Khalil was subsequently transported to a detention centre in New Jersey before being moved to a facility in Louisiana.
The arrest has been widely condemned by civil rights organizations, activists, and members of the Democratic Party. More than 100 House Democrats have demanded an explanation from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Khalil's lawyers argue that his detention is an attack on freedom of speech and the First Amendment, noting that he has not been charged with any crime.
Suppressed News tweeted:
⚡️????????BREAKING: New footage shows the moment of arrest of Mahmouhd Khalil.
— Suppressed News. (@SuppressedNws) March 14, 2025
Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and Palestinian activist, was detained by plainclothes agents from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at his university-owned apartment in Manhattan.… pic.twitter.com/2W5XwDWiKA
Khalil's involvement in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University, including his role as a negotiator during the 2024 encampment protest, has been cited as a reason for his detention. Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin stated that advocating for violence and terrorism should result in the revocation of Khalil's visa.
Protests have erupted across the country, with demonstrators demanding Khalil's release. Activists have gathered in cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, holding rallies and marches to show their support. The images of Khalil's arrest and the subsequent protests have been widely shared on social media, amplifying the call for justice.
Amnesty International USA tweeted:
The arrest and detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist and lawful permanent resident, marks yet another violation of human rights under the Trump administration.
— Amnesty International USA (@amnestyusa) March 13, 2025
Targeting peaceful protesters based on the content of their protest is an attack on freedom of… pic.twitter.com/RXlFGOo19e
A federal judge has temporarily blocked Khalil's deportation, allowing the court to review the constitutionality of his detention. As the legal battle continues, Khalil's case remains a focal point in the ongoing debate over immigration policies and the rights of activists in the United States.
