Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist at Columbia University, was detained by ICE, facing visa revocation and potential green card withdrawal. Khalil, a permanent resident, is defended by attorney Amy Greer. The arrest aligns with federal actions against anti-Israel protest participants, amidst broader investigations into campus antisemitism. Columbia University has stated its commitment to legal compliance while supporting student rights.
Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student activist at Columbia University, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials at his residence. Riding on orders from the State Department, ICE was set to revoke Khalil’s student visa. Khalil’s attorney, Amy Greer, revealed that he was a permanent legal resident, yet ICE additionally sought to revoke his green card.
Greer expressed determination to uphold Khalil’s rights in court, emphasizing the injustice of the situation. It is notable that the arrest of a green card holder typically follows serious criminal allegations, rendering such actions uncommon. The process of revoking a green card is usually protracted due to the thorough vetting that holders undergo before eligibility for U.S. citizenship.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked on social media about revoking visas and green cards for Hamas supporters in America, linking to the associated AP story. Columbia University affirmed its commitment to comply with federal laws while supporting its students and upholding their legal rights.
The detention may signify an enforcement approach by federal authorities aligned with prior statements from former President Trump regarding the deportation of international students involved in anti-Israel protests, amid reports of harassment faced by Jewish students during such events. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security claimed Khalil participated in activities connected to Hamas, deemed a terrorist organization.
In response to the situation, the Trump administration revoked $400 million in federal grants to Columbia University, aiming to penalize the institution for perceived failures in addressing antisemitism. The New York Immigration Coalition’s CEO criticized this action as unconstitutional and detrimental to the principle of freedom of speech in America.
The detention of Mahmoud Khalil highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and free speech in America. ICE’s actions, fueled by federal directives aimed at penalizing anti-Israel demonstrations, raise significant legal concerns regarding the treatment of green card holders. This case may offer a pivotal moment in the discourse surrounding legality, student activism, and immigration rights within the academic community.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
