Protesters rallied outside a U.S. courthouse on Friday, demanding the release of international students detained for expressing support for Palestinians. Mahmoud Khalil, a foreign-born student, is among several at American universities facing deportation for protesting against Israel amid its conflict with Hamas.
The detentions have sparked criticism of the U.S. government’s handling of free speech and immigration policies. Security camera footage capturing the arrest of another student has intensified scrutiny over what some describe as a crackdown on dissenting voices.
Advocates argue that peaceful protest is a fundamental right and that detaining students for expressing their views undermines democratic principles. “We stand in solidarity with all students who are being penalized for exercising their freedom of speech,” said one demonstrator at the rally.
The situation has raised concerns among international students who fear that participating in demonstrations could jeopardize their immigration status. Universities have also been called upon to protect the rights of their students and support those facing legal challenges.
As tensions continue to rise, calls for reassessing policies that may infringe upon civil liberties are growing louder. Supporters of the detained students are urging authorities to release them and respect their right to peaceful protest.
