Protesters Occupy Trump Tower After Arrest of Columbia Student
New York City – Trump Tower became the epicenter of a high-profile protest as demonstrators flooded the lobby, demanding the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and pro-Palestinian activist who was recently arrested and faces possible deportation.
The Protest That Shook Trump Tower
On March 13, 2025, approximately 150 demonstrators, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, entered the lobby of Trump Tower in Manhattan. Wearing shirts with slogans such as “Jews say stop arming Israel”, they carried signs and chanted in protest against Khalil’s detention. The group condemned what they described as a crackdown on student activism, particularly those advocating for Palestinian rights.
Despite police warnings to disperse, 98 protesters were arrested, with charges ranging from trespassing to resisting arrest. The demonstration has reignited debates on free speech, activism, and immigration policies in the United States.
Who Is Mahmoud Khalil?
Khalil, a legal U.S. resident, is a Columbia University student married to an American citizen. He was detained in New York City and is currently being held in Louisiana by immigration authorities. His arrest has sparked national and international outrage, with civil liberty organizations calling for his release and questioning the legal basis for his detention.
Trump’s Reaction and Political Implications
Former President Donald Trump has weighed in on the controversy, labeling Khalil a “Radical Foreign Pro-Hamas Student” in a statement. He also expressed support for tougher immigration policies targeting foreign-born activists, further fueling political tensions surrounding the case.
The protest at Trump Tower has drawn attention from major political figures, civil rights advocates, and even United Nations officials, with many urging a fair judicial process for Khalil.
Broader Impact and Ongoing Debate
This incident has intensified discussions on student activism, government surveillance, and freedom of expression, especially in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict. With Khalil’s case still unfolding, protests are expected to continue, and legal experts anticipate a drawn-out legal battle over his immigration status.
As the situation develops, the spotlight remains on Trump Tower, Columbia University, and the broader political landscape. The coming days will likely determine whether Khalil’s detention turns into a defining moment for student-led movements and immigration rights in the U.S.
