- United States
- Minn.
- Letter
Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and graduate student at Columbia University, was arrested by ICE agents in a concerning escalation of the Trump administration's crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses. As a legal permanent resident, his detention without criminal charges raises serious civil liberties concerns. Khalil played a prominent role in last year's protests against Israel's actions in Gaza, serving as a negotiator between students and the university administration. While the administration accuses him of supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, he has not been charged with any crime. Detaining a green card holder based solely on speech and activism creates a chilling effect that undermines free expression rights. This appears to be a retaliatory action against someone for voicing views the administration opposed. Such overreach threatens core democratic values and sends a troubling message about the administration's respect for civil liberties. Immediate action must be taken to free Mahmoud Khalil and protect the right to free speech on campus. I urge a full review of Khalil's case and his immediate release absent any legitimate criminal charges being filed expeditiously through proper legal channels. Protecting robust debate, even over controversial issues, is essential for a free society.
