Trump administration arrests pro-Palestinian activist in crackdown

The Trump administration has arrested pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, a legal U.S. resident, using a little-known law to argue his protests threaten U.S. foreign policy. This marks a shift in how dissent is handled, raising concerns about free speech. Khalil, who has not been charged with a crime, is being held while a federal judge has temporarily blocked his deportation. His case is seen as a potential precedent for using immigration laws against political dissenters, which critics argue could intimidate others. Previously, Trump has used federal powers to suppress protests, notably during the 2020 demonstrations against police brutality. His administration's approach contrasts with leniency shown towards supporters involved in the January 6 Capitol riot.