Protesters Occupy Trump Tower for Mahmoud Khalil Release

On March 13, 2025, members of Jewish Voice for Peace staged a protest in the lobby of Trump Tower in New York City to demand the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University activist arrested by ICE agents. Khalil, a legal permanent resident, was detained for allegedly participating in pro-Palestinian protests and faces deportation without being charged with any crimes. Protesters, many wearing red shirts with messages opposing U.S. support for Israel, chanted phrases like 'Bring Mahmoud home now!' and held signs reading 'Fight Nazis, not students.' President Donald Trump called Khalil's arrest the first of many aimed at students he deemed engaged in 'pro-terrorist, anti-Semitic, anti-American activity.' The demonstration drew significant attention, including from celebrities like actress Debra Winger, who voiced concerns over free speech and Khalil's treatment. Protests supporting Khalil have occurred across the country, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding immigration and political activism related to the Israel-Palestine conflict.