Protests against deportation of Columbia activist in NYC
Protesters from the Jewish group Jewish Voice for Peace gathered in Trump Tower's lobby to oppose the immigration arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University activist. Khalil faces deportation despite not being charged with any crime. Khalil was arrested outside his apartment in New York City and is currently detained in Louisiana. President Trump stated that Khalil's arrest is the first of many, targeting students he claims engage in anti-American activities. Supporters argue that Khalil's arrest infringes on free speech. Protests have occurred in various locations, including a recent demonstration outside a Manhattan courthouse. Khalil's wife is pregnant, and he completed his master's degree at Columbia in December.