Empire State Review Team 
Protests Erupt at Columbia University and Barnard College
NEW YORK – Demonstrations at Columbia University and Barnard College have surged once again, following the NYPD’s response to a bomb threat that prompted a lockdown at Barnard’s library. A group of masked protesters occupied the library, leading to a standoff with law enforcement that resulted in the arrest of nine students who refused to vacate the premises.
Details of the Protest Incident
Following the bomb threat, students gathered to voice their discontent over what they perceived as a heavy-handed response by the NYPD during the hours-long occupation. Local news reports indicated that tensions were high as protesters attempted to draw attention to broader issues affecting the campus community.
ICE Arrest of Pro-Palestinian Activist
In a related development, Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian graduate student prominently involved in last spring’s pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia, was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The arrest occurred while Khalil was in his university housing near the campus. His attorney, Amy Greer, confirmed the details, noting that ICE acted on orders related to the State Department.
According to Greer, the agents initially indicated they were revoking Khalil’s student visa before attempting to rescind his permanent resident status, despite his possession of a green card. Khalil’s detainment is seen as part of the Trump administration’s commitment to deport international students who participate in political protests against Israel.
Reactions and Legal Implications
Khalil had positioned himself as a negotiator during the protests, placing him among the few activists willing to publicly advocate for their cause. His arrest raises significant concerns regarding the implications of the current government stance towards political dissent among international students.
As of now, Khalil has been transferred to an immigration detention facility in New Jersey. His attorney expressed frustration over the lack of clarity, stating, “We have not been able to get any more details about why he is being detained. This is a clear escalation. The administration is following through on its threats.”
Columbia University’s Response
A spokesperson for Columbia University commented on the situation, highlighting that law enforcement must present a warrant to enter university property, although they did not confirm whether such a warrant existed for Khalil’s arrest. The university also refrained from commenting specifically on his case.
Broader Impact on University Community
The arrest of Khalil is viewed within the context of increased scrutiny from federal authorities concerning allegations of antisemitism at Columbia, particularly related to the actions of student groups advocating for Palestinian rights. Due to these allegations, significant funding, amounting to $400 million, has been withheld from the university by federal agencies.
Following Khalil’s arrest, reports indicated disciplinary actions being taken against other students involved in pro-Palestinian activism, with allegations focusing on organizing events and social media activity deemed unfavorable by the administration.
Greer and other advocates worry that these actions are retaliatory measures intended to suppress free speech and political expression among students. Khalil himself stated, “They just want to show Congress and rightwing politicians that they’re doing something, regardless of the stakes for students. It’s mainly an office to chill pro-Palestine speech.”
Conclusion
The ripple effects of these events at Columbia University and Barnard College showcase the intersection of politics, immigration policy, and student activism. As tensions persist and authorities continue to monitor and act on campus protests, these incidents will likely fuel ongoing debates about free speech, immigration rights, and political expression within academic institutions.
