Columbia Activist Defends Hamas Massacre — Sparks Pro-Israel Backlash
Columbia pro-terror activist Mahmoud Khalil’s recent remarks spark controversy; conservative as Laura Loomer issues sharp reaction.
Twitter
In a move that has stirred intense debate, Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate and activist, emerged in a recent interview justifying the October 7 Hamas terror attack, claiming it was a “desperate attempt” to “break the cycle” of Palestinian marginalization.
The comments, aired during a sit-down with The New York Times, highlighted Khalil’s refusal to outright condemn the attack, drawing fierce criticism from across the political spectrum.
Khalil, who spent 104 days in federal immigration detention before being released by court order, has been at the center of the Trump administration’s crackdown on antisemitism at elite universities.
His release sparked renewed focus on the balance between free speech and national security, as well as concerns about overreach in immigration policy.
Among the most vocal critics is Laura Loomer, the well-known conservative activist. Taking to social media, Loomer blasted the remarks, calling them unacceptable and urging stricter government action, including deporting Khalil.
Her reaction underscored growing frustration among commentators over campus tolerance for pro-terror sentiment.
On college campuses nationwide, Khalil’s case has become emblematic of a broader ideological battle to safeguard Jewish students against hate. While supporters of Khalil frame his detention as retaliation for political activism, opponents highlight the dangerous implications of normalizing terrorist justifications.