Columbia University student arrested for protesting and visa violations

In the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the arrest of Leqaa Korda, a Columbia University student, for allegedly overstaying her visa and involvement in campus protests earlier in the year. This arrest was part of a broader crackdown by the Trump administration on individuals linked to views associated with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. Korda, a Palestinian from the West Bank, was reportedly arrested later in 2024, signaling ongoing tensions related to advocacy for Palestinian rights on American campuses. The arrest raised concerns about the government's scrutiny of students advocating for political causes. Korda's detainment occurred just days after Mahmoud Khalil, another student involved in similar protests, was also arrested. Khalil, a green card holder, had participated in protests on campus that drew nationwide attention and were characterized by DHS officials as being aligned with Hamas. His lawyer has challenged the assertions made by DHS, describing them as false and politically motivated. Khalil’s arrest was part of a larger narrative of fear and heightened security surrounding discussions on campus regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its implications for Jewish students. Compounding the situation, DHS agents recently conducted searches of two student residences without arresting anyone, as confirmed by Columbia's interim president, Katrina Armstrong. She expressed her heartbreak over the federal presence on campus and insisted on the university’s commitment to comply with the law while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the community. The searches, authorized by judicial warrants, were conducted to address concerns about campus safety and potential threats, which the administration and law enforcement have classified as stemming from heightened tensions surrounding pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The controversy has sparked significant debate both within the university and in the broader public sphere, with protests occurring in response to Khalil's detention and demands for his release. Advocates argue that these actions represent an infringement on free speech rights and that the government's actions could deter students from expressing their beliefs. This dynamic highlights the ongoing struggle over freedom of expression within academic institutions, especially regarding sensitive political issues.