Jewish activists converged on Trump Tower in New York on Thursday to protest the immigration arrest of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil. The demonstrators were part of Jewish Voice for Peace, a group advocating for an end to U.S. support of Israel’s policies towards Palestinians. Wearing red shirts emblazoned with “Jews say stop arming Israel,” they gathered in the public atrium of the Fifth Avenue skyscraper, chanting for Khalil’s release.
The police eventually warned the protestors to disperse, leading to the arrest of 98 individuals on charges such as trespassing and resisting arrest. Khalil, a 30-year-old permanent U.S. resident married to an American citizen, was detained outside his New York City apartment on Saturday and faces deportation, despite no charges of criminal activity against him. He is currently held in an immigration facility in Louisiana.
President Donald Trump stated that Khalil’s arrest is the start of more actions targeted at deporting students involved in what he described as “pro-terrorist, anti-Semitic, anti-American activity.” While the White House did not comment on the demonstration at Trump Tower, the sentiment marks a continued crackdown on campus protests.
Debra Winger, an actor and participant in the protest, criticized the Trump administration, expressing her disapproval, stating Khalil’s arrest contradicts the values of American freedom. Jewish Voice for Peace is one of several groups globally advocating for Palestinian rights.
Sophie Edelhart, a protester who is pursuing a PhD in Canada, referenced Trump Tower’s symbolic importance, noting its history with Trump’s presidential campaign. The building, home to the Trump Organization and often the setting for political protests, allows public access via its atrium, which also offers dining options.
Khalil’s supporters argue that his arrest is an affront to free speech, with other demonstrations occurring in New York and nationwide. A focal point for such protests, Columbia University, saw significant pro-Palestinian activism last year, culminating in numerous arrests.
In legal developments, Khalil and several students filed a lawsuit to prevent a congressional committee from obtaining disciplinary records from Columbia and Barnard College. The lawsuit argues that the committee, led by Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., is overstepping to stifle free speech on campuses. The sought injunction aims to stop this potential overreach, protecting students’ First Amendment rights.
Walberg defended the committee’s actions, asserting the need for the information as part of legislative endeavors to counter campus antisemitism. Both Barnard and Columbia University have been reticent to comment on the litigation or the situation at large.
Khalil, who had completed his Master’s degree at Columbia by December, is anticipating the birth of his first child with his American wife.
