Columbia University Activist Mahmoud Khalil Arrested by ICE: A Controversial Detention

 Columbia University Activist Mahmoud Khalil Arrested by ICE: A Controversial Detention

The recent arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, has ignited debates about immigration policies, political activism, and freedom of speech in the United States. His detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has raised questions about the government’s approach to student protests and due process.

Who Is Mahmoud Khalil?

Mahmoud Khalil, originally from Syria, is a pro-Palestinian activist known for his leadership in student protests at Columbia University. He played a key role in negotiations between students and university officials regarding campus demonstrations related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His outspoken activism made him a prominent figure within the movement.

The Arrest: What Happened?

On the night of March 9, 2025, ICE agents arrived at Khalil’s university-owned apartment in New York City. According to his lawyer, Amy Greer, they entered without presenting a judicial warrant. Khalil was taken into custody, and officials later informed Greer that his student visa and green card had been revoked.

Reasons for His Detention

ICE stated that Khalil’s legal status was revoked due to alleged connections with Hamas, an organization designated as a terrorist group by the U.S. government. However, no formal charges or evidence have been publicly disclosed to support this claim. Many believe that his detention is politically motivated, given his involvement in student activism.

Columbia University’s Response

Columbia University officials acknowledged the arrest and emphasized that law enforcement is required to present a judicial warrant to enter non-public areas such as student housing. The university is currently reviewing the circumstances of Khalil’s detention to determine whether legal protocols were followed.

This incident coincides with a recent decision by the U.S. government to withdraw

 approximately $400 million in federal funding from Columbia University. The administration justified this move by citing concerns over the university’s handling of antisemitism on campus.

Public Outcry and Legal Concerns

Khalil’s arrest has sparked strong reactions from human rights groups, legal experts, and student organizations.

The New York Immigration Coalition condemned the arrest as a violation of free speech and due process.

Legal analysts have questioned the legality of revoking his immigration status without a proper hearing.

Columbia student activists have continued to protest, demanding Khalil’s release.

His wife, who is currently eight months pregnant, was reportedly left uninformed about the details of his detention, adding to the public outrage.

Current Status and Legal Battle

Khalil has been transferred to an immigration detention facility in Elizabeth, New Jersey. His legal team is preparing to challenge the revocation of his visa and green card, arguing that his detention is unconstitutional. Advocacy groups are calling for his immediate release and a fair review of his case.

Conclusion

The arrest of Mahmoud Khalil highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies, political activism, and freedom of speech in the U.S. As legal proceedings unfold, this case could set an important precedent for how student activists—particularly those involved in controversial causes—are treated by federal authorities.