Protests Erupt Outside Trump Tower Over Khalil Arrest

Protests erupted at Trump Tower in New York City in support of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University activist arrested by ICE. Approximately 100 demonstrators, primarily from the pro-Palestine group Jewish Voice for Peace, staged a sit-in while chanting slogans such as 'Free Mahmoud' and wearing shirts proclaiming 'Jews Say Stop Arming Israel.' The NYPD responded by clearing the area and making multiple arrests, leading to tensions as protesters occupied the lobby and public spaces within the building. Khalil, who was taken into custody under a section of the Immigration and Nationality Act, is facing deportation, which his supporters argue is a violation of free speech. The situation escalated as protesters clashed with police, resulting in several individuals being escorted away in zip ties. Khalil's case has sparked broader discussions about immigration policy and activism on college campuses.