U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the detainment of Columbia University activist Mahmoud Khalil, emphasizing stricter visa enforcement against protesters perceived as threats to national security. The case has sparked a debate on First Amendment rights for foreign nationals, with strong reactions from both political parties.
Rubio Defends Arrest of Columbia Activist Mahmoud Khalil
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly defended the detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder arrested for his role in last year’s pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University. Speaking on CBS’ Face the Nation, Rubio argued that foreign nationals involved in demonstrations deemed harmful to U.S. foreign policy interests could face deportation.
Trump Administration’s Stance on Protest-Related Deportations
President Donald Trump has hailed Khalil’s arrest as a major step in combating antisemitism on college campuses. He stated on social media that this case is “the first of many to come.” Immigration authorities have since arrested a second Columbia protester of Palestinian descent, citing visa overstay violations.
Legal Challenges and Political Reactions
Khalil’s case has sparked intense debate over the rights of immigrants in political protests. More than 100 House Democrats signed a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, condemning the arrest and demanding legal justification. Meanwhile, a federal judge has temporarily blocked Khalil’s deportation as the legal process unfolds.
Rubio’s Justification for the Arrest
During the CBS interview, Rubio stated that Khalil’s involvement in protests contradicts U.S. foreign policy interests. However, when asked for concrete evidence linking Khalil to terrorism, Rubio did not provide specifics. Instead, he pointed to general protest activities, such as occupying buildings and vandalizing college campuses, as justification for stricter visa enforcement.
Ongoing Crackdown on Foreign Protesters
Rubio confirmed that visa revocations and deportations will continue, stating, “Every day we are approving visa revocations.” He emphasized that visas are a privilege, not a right, and that those who violate visa conditions or engage in activities deemed harmful to U.S. interests will face removal.
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