
Palestinian Student Activist Arrested at Columbia University Amid Protests
In a significant development at Columbia University, Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student and prominent activist, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) amid ongoing pro-Palestinian protests on campus. The arrest, which took place on March 9, 2025, has sparked widespread debate and concern over the handling of student activism and immigration policies.
Khalil, a student at the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), had been actively involved in leading the pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia. His arrest was confirmed by his lawyer, who stated that Khalil was detained without immediate explanation. The incident has led to increased tensions on campus, with many students and faculty expressing solidarity with Khalil and questioning the motives behind his detention.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE have not provided detailed reasons for Khalil's arrest, fueling speculation about the intersection of political activism and immigration enforcement. Columbia University's administration has been urged to address the situation and ensure the safety and rights of its students amidst the ongoing protests.
This event underscores the broader national and international debate over freedom of expression, the rights of international students, and the role of law enforcement in managing political protests. As the situation develops, many are watching closely to see how it will impact student activism and university policies moving forward.