JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A crowd gathered in Downtown Jacksonville on Saturday, urging for the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student and political activist detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since March.

Khalil’s arrest followed his public criticism of the war in Gaza. His supporters argue that his detention is politically driven and reflects a broader crackdown on activists critical of U.S. foreign policies.

Over 50 demonstrators assembled outside the Bryan Simpson United States Courthouse, chanting, displaying signs, and demanding Khalil’s immediate release. Many were members of the Jacksonville Palestine Solidarity Network, the group that organized the rally.

Supporters say Khalil was ripped from his pregnant wife and community after criticizing the U.S. and Israeli governments’ actions in Gaza. His story has now become a rallying cry for activists across the country, including right here in Jacksonville.

Ryan Delaney, a representative of the Jacksonville Palestine Solidarity Network, shared an emotional message about Khalil’s separation from his family.

“One of the things that upsets me the most is that his child was born without him having the opportunity to be there,” said Delaney . “The state is refusing to allow him visits with his wife and child. There’s blatant cruelty behind this.” said Delaney

Organizers say they will continue to rally and pressure lawmakers until Khalil is released and reunited with his family.

“It’s something that we will never stand for,” said Delaney “We’re going to continue to fight for Mahmoud today, tomorrow, and every day until he and all political prisoners are free from ICE detention.”

ICE has not yet responded to a request for comment on Khalil’s case.