Palestinian student arrested for protest activities at Columbia

U.S. immigration agents arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student at Columbia University, citing his involvement in activities linked to Hamas. This marks a significant step in President Trump's crackdown on pro-Palestinian activists, which has drawn criticism from civil rights groups. Khalil, who holds a U.S. green card, was detained at his university residence. His arrest follows Trump's cancellation of $400 million in grants to Columbia, amid allegations of antisemitic harassment on campus. The university has faced increased scrutiny over its handling of student protests. Civil rights advocates condemned Khalil's detention as an attack on free speech. Columbia University stated it is committed to the legal rights of its students while addressing concerns about antisemitism. Khalil's arrest is part of a broader effort to target foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian movements.