Columbia University Protest Leader Arrested Under Trump Administration's New Policies

Federal authorities detained Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist, citing alleged ties to Hamas and new executive orders targeting foreign student protesters.

Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian Columbia University graduate and prominent pro-Palestinian activist, was arrested on March 9 by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The DHS claims Khalil has connections to Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, though no detailed evidence has been provided publicly.
The arrest aligns with President Trump's recent executive orders aimed at combating perceived antisemitism and expelling foreign students involved in activism deemed disruptive.
Columbia University, a hub for pro-Palestinian protests since 2024, has faced significant federal scrutiny, including a $400 million cut in federal funding announced on March 7.
University officials have stated their commitment to complying with the law but have not directly commented on Khalil's arrest or the broader implications for campus activism.

Courrier International