Jewish Organization Protests for Mahmoud Khalil’s Release – 98 Arrested at Trump Tower in New York

Jewish Organization Protests for Mahmoud Khalil’s Release – 98 Arrested at Trump Tower in New York

New York: Members of the Jewish organization Jewish Voice for Peace gathered in the lobby of Trump Tower in New York on Thursday to stage a protest. They chanted slogans and displayed banners demanding the release of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil.

The protesters wore red T-shirts with the message "Stop Arming Israel" printed on them. They chanted in unison, "Bring Mahmoud back now!"

98 Arrested as Trump Administration Takes a Hard Stance

The New York Police Department (NYPD) ordered the protesters to leave Trump Tower, but many refused to comply. As a result, 98 people were arrested on charges of trespassing, obstruction, and resisting arrest.

Mahmoud Khalil, a 34-year-old permanent U.S. resident and husband of a U.S. citizen, was arrested last Saturday in front of his apartment in New York City. Although he faces no criminal charges, he is currently being held in an immigration detention center in Louisiana.

“Many More Will Be Arrested” – Trump’s Statement

Former President Donald Trump issued a statement calling Khalil’s arrest “the first step” and announced his plan to deport students engaged in pro-terrorist, anti-Semitic, and anti-American activities in the future.

“Is This America?” – Actress Debra Winger

Renowned actress Debra Winger participated in the protest, though she was not arrested. She stated, "The Trump administration has no interest in protecting Jews. Instead, they are weaponizing anti-Semitism."

She further added, "I am simply standing up for my rights. Mahmoud Khalil has been illegally abducted and taken to an undisclosed location. Even his lawyer didn’t know where he was at first. Can this really be America’s policy?"

Lawsuit and Congressional Investigation

Mahmoud Khalil, along with seven Columbia University students, has filed a lawsuit in federal court. They allege that a Congressional committee has requested disciplinary records of students at Columbia and Barnard College, which they claim violates their First Amendment rights.

The investigation is being led by Republican Congressman Tim Walberg, who stated, "Our inquiry will not stop because it is crucial to counter anti-Semitic activities on campuses."

Campus Protests and Pro-Palestinian Movement

In 2024, pro-Palestinian movements intensified across various U.S. universities, particularly at Columbia University. Over 2,000 students have been arrested in such protests.

Protesters argue that Mahmoud Khalil’s arrest is an attack on free speech, and they continue to demonstrate across different parts of New York, demanding his immediate release.