Demonstrators Rally for Khalil at Trump Tower: ‘Resist Oppression, Defend Students’

A coalition led by a progressive Jewish organization came together in a show of support for Mahmoud Khalil, the Palestinian activist whose potential deportation by the Trump administration has sparked controversy.

A vibrant crowd gathered in the basement area of Trump Tower on Thursday, expressing disapproval of the detainment of Mahmoud Khalil, a former student of Columbia University and a Palestinian activist.

President Trump has commended the apprehension as moves are underway to expel Mr. Khalil, who resides in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident and was notably involved in pro-Palestinian activism at Columbia.

Protesters displayed large fabric banners with stark red and black writing, including one message proclaiming, “Liberate Mahmoud, Liberate Palestine.” The chants of “Resist Oppression, Defend Students” were echoed throughout the venue.

Police Chief John Chell reported the subsequent arrest of ninety-eight individuals involved in the protest.

Following the public revelation of Mr. Khalil's detention last Saturday, various demonstrations have erupted, with participants taking to the streets of Lower Manhattan and assembling at Columbia University. This has drawn concerns from advocates of free speech and immigration rights regarding the legitimacy of detaining Mr. Khalil, 30, who holds a green card, has Syrian roots, and is married to a U.S. citizen. His legal team is actively appealing the decision.

As lunchtime approached on Thursday, more individuals joined the gathering at Trump Tower’s lower level plaza. Shedding their outerwear, they revealed bright red shirts with the front slogan “Not in Our Name” and the reverse reading “Jewish Voices Say Halt Weapons to Israel.”