NYC Protests Ignite Following Arrest of Columbia University Pro-Palestinian Activist: Judge Halts Deportation

A judge has halted the Trump administration’s effort to deport a pro-Palestinian activist, Mahmoud Khalil. Khalil was a key figure in the 2024 student encampment protests at Columbia University. The judge has scheduled a court conference for Wednesday morning at 11:30 a.m. in Lower Manhattan to discuss the case.

The ruling means that Khalil cannot be removed from the United States for now, as stated by Judge Jesse Furman. “This is good news,” said Jamie Beran, CEO of Bend The Arc Jewish Action. She emphasized the importance of fighting for Khalil’s release and protecting free speech. Another supporter, Madeleine Elfenbein, highlighted that the threat of being detained without due process affects everyone, regardless of individual beliefs.

Khalil was arrested over the weekend at his university apartment by federal immigration officials. His attorney, Amy Greer, reported that they acted on an order from the State Department to cancel his student visa and green card. Khalil is currently being held in Jena, Louisiana, as he awaits immigration court proceedings that could lead to his deportation. His pregnant wife described him as a humble and selfless individual who advocates for the oppressed.

President Trump mentioned Khalil’s arrest as just the beginning, suggesting more actions against similar activists could follow. The Department of Homeland Security stated the arrest supported an executive order against anti-Semitism but did not provide specifics on any alleged crimes.

Meanwhile, protests erupted in Manhattan in response to Khalil’s detention. Demonstrators gathered at Foley Square, calling for his release and later marched through the streets. During the protest, at least one person was arrested. Theo Oshiro from the group Make The Road States pointed out that Khalil, a legal permanent resident, should not be detained under current immigration laws. He expressed concern about how this case impacts free speech and peaceful activism across the nation.

Columbia and Barnard College advocates are rallying for Khalil, emphasizing that his situation could happen to anyone. Rabbi Jason Garrett Klein stated that the events surrounding Khalil’s case invoke strong feelings of outrage and fear. Columbia mathematics professor Michael Farris called Khalil a political prisoner in the U.S., while Beran criticized the administration for using anti-Semitism as a veil for more substantial political agendas.

Students at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs have also raised their voices for Khalil, emphasizing his character and denial of supporting terrorism. They expressed worry for their friend, highlighting the close-knit nature of the community.

Katrina Armstrong, the interim president of Columbia University, addressed the community, calling this a “challenging moment.” Armstrong emphasized Columbia’s commitment to freedom of expression and open inquiry, which are vital to higher education and democracy. She assured the community that the university would continue to uphold these values while navigating the current challenges.

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Columbia University, New York