US opposes Palestinian activist's release; protests in New York

The US government plans to oppose the release of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, arrested by ICE on Saturday. Protests have erupted in New York, led by students from Columbia University, where Khalil studied. A federal court hearing is set for Wednesday, where a judge temporarily blocked Khalil's deportation. The government argues the judge lacks authority to decide the case. This situation highlights tensions over immigration policy and free speech, particularly regarding support for groups labeled as terrorists by the US.