Watan-Tensions flared on the streets of Manhattan on Tuesday as the NYPD intervened to disperse hundreds of protesters rallying in support of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, who was arrested by federal authorities last Saturday in preparation for his deportation on charges of “expressing pro-Hamas views.” The clashes resulted in at least 12 arrests, while Columbia University faced backlash for allegedly “collaborating with Trump” in targeting activists.
Protests and Clashes: Demonstrators Block Streets
- Around 500 protesters gathered at Washington Square Park, holding signs calling for the abolition of ICE and the release of Khalil.
- Demonstrators attempted to breach City Hall Park, but police cordoned off the area and began arresting those who refused to disperse.
- Protesters chanted slogans such as “The only solution is a popular uprising” and accused the police of using “Israeli-style tactics,” according to videos circulating on social media.
Why Is Mahmoud Khalil Facing Deportation?
- Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University student, was arrested at his home in a raid conducted by ICE.
- Khalil, a U.S. permanent resident, is accused of “supporting Hamas” through his speeches at anti-Israel protests, according to the White House.
- His legal team argues that the arrest is a “political crackdown” on his views, particularly as his American wife is pregnant.
Political Context: Trump’s Crackdown on ‘Campus Antisemitism’
- Khalil’s arrest comes amid President Donald Trump’s pledge to “cleanse universities of hate,” citing the rise of pro-Palestine protests on campuses like Columbia.
- The White House criticized Columbia University for “insufficient cooperation” in identifying individuals allegedly involved in “anti-Israel activities.”
- Columbia has been a hotspot for protests since 2023 after announcing research partnerships with Israeli universities.
Public Reactions: Supporters Outraged, Tourists Shocked
- Andrea Benatar, a tourist from Texas: “If they were proud of their cause, they wouldn’t hide their faces behind masks.”
- Anastasia Simon, a human rights activist: “Khalil is a political prisoner—this arrest is an attempt to crush our movement.”
- Khalil’s lawyers condemned the U.S. government, calling its actions “a crackdown on civil liberties under the pretext of counterterrorism.”
Legal Battle: Critical Deportation Hearing in Louisiana
- Khalil is set to appear for a deportation hearing on Wednesday in Louisiana, where he is being held by immigration authorities.
- His family is demanding his transfer to New York, arguing that detaining him in the South is a form of “collective punishment” due to the difficulty of visits.
Analysis: Is Washington Waging a War on Free Speech?
Observers suggest that Khalil’s case is part of a broader strategy to silence voices critical of Israel’s occupation, especially following the passage of the “Combating Antisemitism Act” in Congress.
The ACLU has warned that accusations of “supporting Hamas” could be weaponized to suppress any criticism of Israeli policies.
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