Activist Mahmoud Khalil faces arrest by federal agents in New York City

In the United States, Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, was arrested by federal immigration agents. The incident took place on March 8, when federal agents confronted Khalil in the lobby of his university-owned apartment. Video footage released by his attorneys shows Khalil being handcuffed by immigration authorities as he calmly cooperated, despite not being shown a warrant or being told the agents' names. His arrest occurred after a wave of protests across the country condemning U.S. immigration policies and expressing solidarity with Palestinian rights. Khalil's detention sparked protests in Times Square and other locations in New York City, with demonstrators advocating for his release and defending the right to protest. Supporters claim that Khalil’s activism is protected under the First Amendment and argue that the federal government’s actions are a violation of his rights. The Trump administration has been accused of attempting to silence dissent against U.S. foreign policy towards Israel by framing Khalil's advocacy as aligned with terrorist organizations. Khalil, who is a lawful U.S. resident with no criminal history, has been detained under a U.S. law that allows the Secretary of State to revoke an individual's immigration status if deemed to pose a risk to foreign policy interests. His lawyers have indicated that after being taken into custody, Khalil was transported from New York to a detention facility in Louisiana, where he reportedly expressed concerns about missing the birth of his first child and about his pregnant wife, who was present during the arrest. The controversy has led to broader discussions concerning immigration enforcement and civil liberties in the U.S., particularly in relation to activism around Palestinian issues. Khalil's situation has evoked fears among other activists that they may face similar repercussions for their political beliefs. Legal actions are currently underway, with Khalil's attorneys seeking to protect his rights amid federal investigations into his activism, and rallies continue across the country calling for accountability from the government.