New York, NY - Demonstrators staged a protest at Columbia University Monday, chaining themselves to the campus gates in an effort to pressure authorities to release two activists, Mohsen Mahdawi and Mahmoud Khalil, who have been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The detained individuals are known for organizing pro-Palestinian protests on campus in recent weeks.
The protesters claim Mahdawi and Khalil were unfairly targeted and detained due to their political activism. They are demanding their immediate release and are calling on Columbia University to publicly support their cause. The demonstration temporarily blocked access to the university, leading to some disruptions for students and faculty.
Police responded to the scene and worked to remove the protesters from the gates. Several arrests were made. University officials have yet to release an official statement regarding the protest or the detention of the two activists. The situation remains tense as supporters continue to rally outside the ICE detention center where Mahdawi and Khalil are being held.
Columbia University Protesters Demand Release of Detained Activists
A group of protesters chained themselves to the gates of Columbia University Monday, calling for the release of two activists currently in ICE custody. Mohsen Mahdawi and Mahmoud Khalil, organizers of recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations, were detained last week. Protesters argue their detention is unjust and are demanding their immediate release. The demonstration caused temporary disruptions as police worked to clear the area.