Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil Returns to Columbia for First Time Since Arrest

Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil returned to Columbia University for the first time since his arrest in 2025, describing his return as a “victory.”

Khalil accused the university of suppressing student protests and seeking to silence Palestinian voices. His remarks placed criticism of Columbia at the center of his return.

The visit marked his first appearance back at the university since his detention, a milestone he framed as a triumph.

His return did not signal an easing of his criticism of the institution. Khalil’s accusations underscored his continuing opposition to its handling of student activism and Palestinian expression.