Chicago groups demand release of detained activist Khalil
Civil rights groups in Chicago are demanding the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian green card holder arrested by ICE. Khalil, who led a pro-Palestinian encampment at Columbia University, faces possible deportation for alleged ties to Hamas. Protests erupted at Federal Plaza, with over 250 demonstrators calling Khalil's arrest a threat to free speech and democracy. Activists argue that his detention reflects a broader crackdown on student activism related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Khalil remains in detention in Louisiana following a court hearing. The situation has drawn attention from local officials, including Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez, who condemned the arrest and emphasized the importance of protecting First Amendment rights.