Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist at Columbia University, was arrested by ICE agents who claimed his student visa had been revoked, despite his legal status as a green card holder. Attorney Amy Greer is contesting the arrest and has filed a habeas corpus petition. The incident reflects broader governmental repression of student activism, specifically in response to criticism of U.S. policies on Israel and Gaza. Columbia University expressed its intent to comply with legal obligations while advocating for its students.

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and leader in Columbia University’s encampment movement, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Saturday night. According to attorney Amy Greer, the agents claimed that his student visa had been revoked. However, Greer clarified that Khalil possesses a green card, emphasizing that despite this, ICE proceeded with his detention.

Greer stated that ICE was informed of Khalil’s legal status during the arrest, yet the agency still chose to detain him. Additionally, during a phone conversation with ICE, agents disconnected the call with Greer, raising concerns about transparency in the situation. She is currently working to contest his arrest and is unable to ascertain his location.

In response to his detention, Greer has filed a habeas corpus petition on Khalil’s behalf to challenge the legality of the arrest. Currently, she reports uncertainty regarding Khalil’s precise whereabouts, noting that his pregnant wife was unable to locate him at an ICE facility, where he may have been transferred to another state.

Greer argues that the arrest illustrates a broader trend of government repression against student activism and political expression, particularly those critical of U.S. policies concerning Israel and Gaza. Her statement suggests that ICE is being utilized as a mechanism to suppress such dissent within academic institutions.

This incident follows recent comments from President Donald Trump, who threatened to withdraw federal funding from universities that allow protests he deems illegal. Columbia University responded by asserting their compliance with legal obligations and reaffirming their commitment to protecting their student body and community in light of the escalating tensions surrounding political protest on campus.

The arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist at Columbia University, raises significant concerns regarding immigration enforcement and its intersection with political activism. Attorney Amy Greer has clarified that Khalil holds a green card, despite ICE’s claims to the contrary. The situation has ignited discussions about the government’s role in regulating free speech and student activism, particularly in light of recent threats from President Trump against institutions permitting protests. Columbia University pledged to adhere to legal standards and support its students during these developments.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com

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