Columbia student arrested, raising free speech concerns

Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia graduate student and campus protest leader, was arrested by federal agents last week. His lawyers claimed he felt "kidnapped" during the incident, which has sparked debate over free speech rights. Khalil's protests were linked to the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. He had been negotiating with university officials on behalf of protesting students, some of whom wore masks during demonstrations that included tearing down posters of hostages. The Department of Homeland Security stated Khalil led activities aligned with Hamas, but critics argue there is no evidence of wrongdoing. The situation raises questions about civil rights and the implications of labeling speech as terrorism-related.