Student Activist's Arrest Sparks Controversy Over Academic Freedom

Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent Palestinian activist, was arrested by federal immigration agents. They claimed to be executing a State Department order to revoke his green card. This action comes amid tensions over protests at Columbia University against Israeli policies, with the Trump administration scrutinizing the university.

In a move that has ignited debate over academic freedom, prominent Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil was taken into custody by federal immigration authorities Saturday night.

According to his attorney, Amy Greer, Khalil was arrested at his university-owned apartment near Columbia University's Manhattan campus, with agents citing a State Department order to revoke his green card.

The arrest follows growing tensions under President Donald Trump's administration, which has been critical of Columbia University's handling of anti-Israel protests on campus, resulting in threats to withdraw funding.