In a new escalation of repression against Palestine solidarity efforts, FBI agents and local police in Michigan raided the homes of several pro-Palestine student activists, arresting and interrogating them as part of an intensifying crackdown across American universities.
According to a statement by GEO—a U.S. graduate student organisation—Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents, alongside Michigan State Police, stormed the residences of multiple activists supporting Palestinian rights at the University of Michigan. The raids resulted in detentions, interrogations, and the confiscation of electronic devices.
The group confirmed that two activists were detained in Ann Arbor, and four others in Ypsilanti, as reported by Anadolu Agency. GEO strongly condemned the raids, calling them “a clear act of political repression,” particularly noting the lack of warrants or justification provided by the police.
Protests Across Campuses Face Repression
These arrests come as pro-Palestinian protests continue across major U.S. universities, sparked by Israel’s ongoing genocidal war in Gaza. Beginning in April 2024, students at institutions nationwide have organised mass sit-ins, encampments, and rallies demanding an end to U.S. support for Israel and divestment from companies complicit in the war.
The Case of Mahmoud Khalil
Among the most notable cases is that of Palestinian student activist Mahmoud Khalil, who described his March 8 arrest by U.S. immigration authorities as a “kidnapping.” Khalil had played a leading role in organising anti-genocide protests at his university.
In an op-ed published by Columbia Spectator, Khalil urged students across the country to resist intimidation and continue their activism, stating that solidarity with Gaza is a moral responsibility.
Visa Revocations and Deportation Threats
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced the revocation of over 300 student visas, citing “various reasons,” with pro-Palestine activism named as a primary factor.
University officials across the U.S. have accused the Trump administration of deploying ambiguous justifications and “new tactics” aimed at deporting international students who support Palestine.
Since October 7, 2023, and with full U.S. backing, Israel has waged a genocidal war on Gaza, killing and injuring over 168,000 Palestinians, the vast majority of whom are women and children, with over 14,000 still missing.
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