Demonstrators filled Trump Tower’s lobby on Thursday to protest the arrest and possible deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist previously involved in anti-Israel protests at Columbia University.
Key Facts:
- 98 protesters arrested inside Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue on Thursday.
- Protesters were from Jewish Voice for Peace, wearing shirts reading “Jews say stop arming Israel.”
- Mahmoud Khalil, 30, was arrested outside his NYC apartment on Saturday and faces deportation.
- Khalil is a permanent U.S. resident married to an American citizen and has not been charged with any crime.
- President Trump stated Khalil’s arrest was the “first of many to come.”
The Rest of The Story:
Actor Debra Winger participated in Thursday’s demonstration, accusing the Trump administration of “co-opting antisemitism” and disregarding Jewish safety.
American actress Debra Winger joined protesters at Trump Tower in New York City to demand the release of Khalil, stating that there was a debt she owed and had to pay.
We have a name for that type of people: Self-Hating Jews pic.twitter.com/GkzUAmx3hX
— Dr. Fundji Benedict (@Fundji3) March 14, 2025
Protester Sophie Edelhart said she joined the protest to push back against Trump and “fascism,” choosing Trump Tower for its symbolic significance related to Trump’s presidential campaign.
Meanwhile, Khalil and several students filed a lawsuit to prevent Congress from obtaining disciplinary records related to protests at Columbia and Barnard College.
The Republican-led House Committee demanded these records, threatening billions in federal funding if the colleges refused to comply.
Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry confirmed there were no injuries during the protest but vowed a review of security procedures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Commentary:
Thursday’s protest at Trump Tower crossed a clear legal line, and authorities were justified in arresting every participant, including actor Debra Winger.
Peaceful protests are a fundamental right in America, but this demonstration was deliberately disruptive, trespassing into private property and obstructing the building’s normal operation.
Debra Winger’s involvement in particular sends the wrong message.
There are many Jewish celebrities who responded to the October 7th massacre by reconnecting with their brothers and sisters in Israel and by showing support for them in their daily struggle for survival against an enemy who wants to annihilate them.
Then there's Debra Winger.
. pic.twitter.com/NBoFs25zel— Joel M. Petlin (@Joelmpetlin) October 14, 2024
Public figures have a responsibility not to encourage lawlessness or mob actions, and Winger should be charged just like any other participant.
Fame or celebrity status must not shield individuals from accountability under the law.
When demonstrators choose symbolic but private venues—like Trump Tower—to make a political statement, they invite lawful consequences.
Trump Tower is not only a private space but an active business hub; intentionally disrupting it constitutes criminal activity.
Arresting these protesters ensures that such tactics do not become commonplace.
Authorities acted properly in detaining these protesters, charging them with trespassing, obstruction, and resisting arrest.
Holding each participant fully accountable sends an important signal to others considering similar demonstrations: America will protect its laws and property rights.
Freedom of speech and expression remain core American values, but freedom does not mean immunity from consequences when laws are violated.
This incident demonstrates why firm law enforcement is critical in maintaining public safety, order, and respect for private property rights.
The charges against these protesters, including Winger, should be pursued fully and without leniency.
The message must be clear: Mob actions and political stunts at private properties cannot and will not be tolerated.
The Bottom Line:
Nearly 100 protesters were arrested at Trump Tower after demanding the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist facing deportation.
Their actions sparked debate over protest limits and law enforcement’s role in preserving order and protecting property.
The incident serves as a stern reminder that political expression must respect the rule of law.
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