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Sunny & warm weather continues with near-record heat later this week

ABC13 Houston
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Sunny & warm weather continues with near-record heat later this week

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’s another cool start, but we have some warm and beautiful weather on the way with high temperatures near 80 degrees today! This is just the first of several days that could be in the 80s this week for Spring Break.

Temperatures Tuesday morning will be in the upper 40s or low 50s and quickly climb after sunrise. It’s going to be another bright and sunny day with temperatures rising into the upper 70s or low 80s across the region. Winds will be light but could pick up slightly into the evening. Tuesday night will then feel a little more muggy and warmer than previous nights with the chance for light fog to develop across Hill Country early Wednesday morning.

Do we have any major weather changes coming during Spring Break?

Calm and clear weather kicks off Spring Break through Tuesday with more of an active end to the week. By Wednesday temperatures we’ll have a little more of a muggy morning with the chance for patchy fog to develop across Hill Country. And Wednesday is when our next weather system will move into Texas. A weak cold front will pass by Houston later in the day. Right now there’s a small chance for showers and storms Wednesday evening, and then Thursday morning could be slightly cooler with temperatures start in the upper 50s. There’s not much staying power with that cool front because by Thursday afternoon temperatures will soar into the upper 80s and be back there for Friday, both days with near record-tying warmth for the day.

Are we done with freezes now?

It sure looks that way! On average, Houston’s last night in the 30s occurs around mid March. If we see any signs of a light freeze or frost on the horizon, we’ll be sure to let you know! Otherwise, it’s generally considered safe to put plants into the ground if you haven’t done so already.

Speaking of spring, what’s the latest on pollen?

While these recent cold fronts have brought an uptick in Cedar pollen, the first few counts of Oak pollen have started to show up locally. Oak pollen counts more than quadrupled last weekend and will only go up from here. So if you haven’t already, now’s the time to begin to do what you need to do to take care of your seasonal allergies!

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Five Years After COVID-19: What We Know and What Remains Uncertain

Indira Zaldivar
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Five Years After COVID-19: What We Know and What Remains Uncertain

Five years after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, the world has undergone profound changes.

Scientists have made significant strides in understanding the virus, including its transmission, treatment methods, and risk factors for long COVID. However, key questions remain about the virus’s true impact and origins.

The Human Toll

As of March 6, over 1.2 million Americans have died from COVID-19, according to the CDC. The U.S. leads the world in reported fatalities, though experts believe the true death toll may be even higher due to complications in tracking COVID-related deaths. Globally, the WHO estimates more than 7 million reported deaths, with excess mortality suggesting the real number is significantly greater.

Understanding Long COVID

Long COVID remains a medical mystery, affecting individuals for weeks, months, or even years. Symptoms include fatigue, cognitive issues, and respiratory problems. Research indicates links to lower cortisol and testosterone levels, but scientists are still investigating why some people are more vulnerable than others.

When Did COVID-19 Reach the U.S.?

The first confirmed U.S. case appeared in January 2020, but studies suggest the virus may have been circulating undetected for months. Experts note that COVID-19 symptoms resemble other respiratory illnesses, making early identification challenging.

The Virus’s Origins

The origins of SARS-CoV-2 remain disputed. Some U.S. agencies support the theory of natural transmission from animals, while others suspect an accidental lab leak in Wuhan, China. The lack of definitive evidence fuels ongoing debate among scientists and policymakers.

Looking Forward

Despite lingering uncertainties, COVID-19 has reshaped global health preparedness. Researchers continue to refine treatments, study long COVID, and improve pandemic response strategies. While unanswered questions remain, progress in understanding the virus offers hope for better resilience against future outbreaks.

Keep up with health updates with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Markets Struggle Amid Recession Concerns and Trade War Escalation

Que Onda Editorial
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Markets Struggle Amid Recession Concerns and Trade War Escalation

U.S. stocks fluctuated between gains and losses on Tuesday morning, showing little change after Monday’s sharp decline, which followed President Donald Trump’s reluctance to rule out a possible recession.

Market Performance

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped about 225 points (0.5%), while the S&P 500 edged up 0.2%. The Nasdaq, driven by tech stocks, gained around 0.5% in early trading.

Tuesday’s market turbulence continued a broader downward trend triggered by new U.S. tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China—some of which have been delayed. China’s retaliatory tariffs, announced Monday, intensified the ongoing trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies.

Recent Market Declines

Monday’s session saw the Nasdaq plummet 4%, marking its worst trading day since 2022. The Dow and S&P 500 each dropped more than 2%, extending last week’s losses. The S&P 500 also recorded its worst week since September.

Trump’s Comments on a Possible Recession

In a Fox News interview aired Sunday, Trump suggested recent tariffs might lead to a “period of transition,” but he avoided making a definitive recession prediction.

“I hate to predict things like that,” Trump said. “It takes a little time, but I think it should be great for us.”

Pressed further, he admitted, “I tell you what, of course you hesitate. Who knows?”

Economic Outlook

Investors are awaiting a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics on job openings, expected Tuesday morning. The data could provide further insight into the economy’s strength amid ongoing market volatility.

Keep up with the U.S. economy with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Francis on Illness, Ageing, and Mortality

Indira Zaldivar
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Pope Francis on Illness, Ageing, and Mortality

Pope Francis has long spoken candidly about ageing, illness, and death, continuing this openness even amid his current battle with pneumonia. His doctors recently confirmed that while the 88-year-old pontiff is no longer in imminent danger, he will remain hospitalized for several more days.

This transparency aligns with his approach throughout his papacy, reminiscent of St. John Paul II, whose struggle with Parkinson’s disease was widely visible but officially unacknowledged by the Vatican until after his death. In contrast, Francis has been forthright about his health, granting an unprecedented interview in 2021 detailing his physical and mental well-being.

Last week, he recorded an audio message from his hospital bed, revealing the strain in his voice and the effort required to speak. Below are some of his reflections on illness and mortality.

On Ageing

Pope Francis has consistently expressed concern about society’s treatment of the elderly, decrying a “throwaway culture” that marginalizes them once they are no longer deemed productive. He has emphasized the need for older people to remain engaged in church life, a stance he upheld even during Pope Benedict XVI’s retirement.

Despite his own physical limitations—now relying on a wheelchair and walker—Francis’s perspective on ageing has remained firm. In his 2010 book On Heaven and Earth, co-written with Rabbi Abraham Skorka, he criticized families who neglect their elders by placing them in nursing homes and rarely visiting.

“The elderly are the sources of history, the people who give us memories; they are the memory of the people, of a nation, of the family, of culture, and religion,” he wrote, reflecting on their invaluable role in society.

On Death

In On Heaven and Earth, then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio recalled a framed adage his grandmother Rosa kept by her bedside: “See that God sees you, see that he is watching you, see that you will die and you don’t know when.”

This phrase profoundly impacted him. He later repeated it in a 2018 speech to priests, crediting his grandmother with teaching him to reflect daily on life’s impermanence. “The thing was kind of bleak, but it helped me,” he admitted.

On His Own Health and Mental Well-being

Francis has spoken openly about his medical history, including a respiratory infection that led to the removal of part of his lung, a gangrenous gallbladder, compressed vertebrae, flat feet, and a fatty liver.

Perhaps most notably, he revealed in The Health of Popes by Dr. Nelson Castro that he attended weekly psychiatric sessions during Argentina’s military dictatorship to manage anxiety while secretly helping people escape persecution.

“In those six months, she helped me manage the fears of that time,” he said, recalling the tension of smuggling individuals past military checkpoints. He credits therapy with helping him make balanced decisions and believes that all priests should have a basic understanding of psychology.

On His Own Mortality

Since early in his papacy, Francis has openly considered his mortality. In 2014, during a flight home from South Korea, he remarked, “I realize that this is not going to last long—two or three years, and then … off to the house of the Father.”

He reportedly told Fidel Castro that while he often thinks about death, he does not fear it. Francis has also made arrangements for his burial, choosing St. Mary Major Basilica over the Vatican, ensuring he will rest near his cherished Madonna icon, Salus Populi Romani.

Recently, he has hinted at his eventual departure, referencing future events he expects not to witness. In 2023, regarding the Vatican’s improving relationship with Vietnam, he quipped, “If I don’t go, surely John XXIV will,” playfully alluding to a future pope who may continue his work.

Pope Francis’s openness about illness and mortality underscores his belief in confronting life’s realities with honesty and faith, offering a message of resilience and reflection to Catholics worldwide.

Keep up with Pope Francis’s recovery with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Laremy Tunsil Trade: Commanders Bolster Protection for Jayden Daniels, Texans Look to the Future

Indira Zaldivar
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Laremy Tunsil Trade: Commanders Bolster Protection for Jayden Daniels, Texans Look to the Future

Monday’s whirlwind of free agent signings across the NFL took a dramatic turn when the Houston Texans struck a deal with the Washington Commanders. The trade sends five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil to Washington in exchange for a package of draft picks spread across the 2025 and 2026 NFL drafts.

A Major Upgrade for Washington’s Offensive Line

The Commanders have made it clear they are committed to protecting their young franchise quarterback, Jayden Daniels. Fresh off a historic rookie season that earned him Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, Daniels now has a proven veteran guarding his blind side.

Tunsil, who still has two years remaining on the three-year extension he signed with Houston in 2023, provides Washington with a reliable left tackle who has missed just three games over the past three seasons. With the team failing to land top free agent tackle Ronnie Stanley—who re-signed with the Ravens—Washington pivoted quickly to acquire Tunsil. The move gives them a short-term solution while also buying time to develop 2024 third-round pick Brandon Coleman.

Financially, the deal is structured in a way that protects Washington. Tunsil will be the fifth-highest-paid tackle in the league this season, carrying a $21.35 million cap hit for 2025 and 2026. However, if the move doesn’t work out, the Commanders can release him before June 1 next offseason without any dead money on their books. While the deal limits Washington’s draft flexibility—leaving them with only two top-100 selections in 2025—the front office is clearly focused on maximizing Daniels’ rookie contract window.

Houston’s Gamble: Rebuilding the Offensive Line

The Texans, meanwhile, are taking a different approach. Despite already struggling on the offensive line in 2024, they opted to part ways with their most accomplished lineman. Pro Football Focus graded Tunsil as one of the top pass blockers last season, allowing just two sacks. His departure leaves a significant hole in protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud, particularly given the inexperience of his expected replacement, Blake Fisher. The 2024 second-round pick ranked near the bottom among qualifying tackles last season, raising concerns about Stroud’s blindside protection.

However, Houston is betting on long-term gains. The trade gives them four additional picks: a third- and seventh-rounder in 2025, plus a second- and fourth-rounder in 2026. This influx of draft capital positions them well for a future tackle acquisition, though it may require additional maneuvering to secure a high-end prospect.

Another potential benefit of the move is financial flexibility. By avoiding another costly Tunsil extension, the Texans have more cap space to work with—possibly for a future mega-deal to retain Stroud. But in the short term, the trade weakens an already questionable offensive line, which could prove costly in a competitive AFC.

Final Trade Grades

  • Washington Commanders: A
    The Commanders addressed a critical need, ensuring Jayden Daniels has top-tier protection without jeopardizing their financial future. While they sacrificed draft capital, the move strengthens their offense significantly.
  • Houston Texans: C+
    Houston gains valuable draft assets and cap relief, but at the expense of their franchise quarterback’s protection. The move introduces immediate risks, and the success of this trade will ultimately depend on how well the Texans reinvest their newly acquired resources.

This trade marks a pivotal moment for both franchises. The Commanders solidify their offensive line in hopes of accelerating their young quarterback’s development, while the Texans gamble on future potential at the cost of present stability. Only time will tell who truly won this deal.

Keep up with the Houston Texans with us on Que Onda Magazine.

The New Threat from the Sky: Plastic and Chemical Rain

Indira Zaldivar
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The New Threat from the Sky: Plastic and Chemical Rain

A Success Story Turned Warning Sign

In the 1970s, acid rain was one of the most serious environmental threats in North America and Europe. Pollution from coal power plants and automobiles turned rainfall toxic, killing fish, destroying forests, and eroding structures. Public outcry led to policy changes, and by the 1990s, regulations significantly reduced acid rain, making it a rare environmental success story.

Acid raid demonstration.

But now, a new and even more insidious threat has taken its place.

The Rise of Plastic and Chemical Rain

As regulatory efforts focused on reducing air pollution, industries introduced new pollutants, including microplastics and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as ‘forever chemicals.’ These substances, used in everything from clothing to cookware, do not easily degrade and have infiltrated every part of our environment—even the rain.

“It’s much worse than the acid rain problem,” Janice Brahney, a biogeochemist at Utah State University, told Vox. “With acid rain, we could stop emitting acid precursors, and then acid rain would stop falling. But we can’t stop the microplastic cycle anymore. It’s there, and it’s not going away.”

What’s in the Rain Now?

Multiple studies confirm that microplastics and PFAS are found in rainfall worldwide. A 2020 study in Science found that microplastics fall in rain across the Western U.S., including national parks and remote areas. Researchers estimated that over 1,000 metric tons of plastic particles—equivalent to hundreds of millions of plastic water bottles—fall from the sky each year.

Highways and urban centers serve as major sources of airborne microplastics.

“Roads are littered with plastic waste that breaks down and gets kicked into the air by cars,” Brahney explained. The ocean is another significant contributor. “When waves crash or bubbles burst, microscopic plastic particles are sent into the atmosphere.”

The Spread of Forever Chemicals

PFAS contamination is just as concerning. A 2024 study titled It’s Raining PFAS in South Florida found more than 20 different PFAS compounds in rainwater around Miami, including chemicals phased out years ago but still present in concentrations above government health advisory levels.

“For us to get rid of PFAS, we probably have to go back in time,” Natalia Soares Quinete, a chemist at Florida International University, told Vox. “Even though regulations are increasing, I don’t see us completely getting rid of these chemicals.”

Studies suggest that no untreated rainwater is safe to drink due to these contaminants, with PFAS detected in rainfall across the U.S., Europe, and even Antarctica.

Are We at Risk?

While most people in developed nations rely on treated water, these pollutants still pose risks. Municipal water systems remove many but not all microplastics and PFAS. A 2023 study by the U.S. Geological Survey found that 45% of the country’s tap water contains at least one type of PFAS.

“Treatment facilities don’t have the technology to remove all microplastic compounds, let alone measure them,” Brahney said. “There are tens of thousands of chemicals involved, and we only understand a fraction of them.”

How to Protect Yourself

  • Avoid drinking untreated rainwater or eating snow, no matter how pristine it looks.
  • Use water filters. Reverse osmosis filters remove a significant portion of microplastics and PFAS. Some countertop pitcher filters, like Zero Water and LifeStraw, can also help.
  • Opt for tap water over bottled water. Bottled water often contains microplastics, and using tap water reduces plastic waste.

The Long-Term Consequences

Scientists suspect microplastics could be linked to cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. A recent study even found microplastics in human brains. Meanwhile, nearly all Americans have PFAS in their blood, with links to high cholesterol, low birth weight, and kidney cancer.

Wildlife is at even greater risk. “If we have these contaminants in our rainwater, they’re getting into our groundwater, our soils—every organism is interacting with rainwater,” Brahney said.

The persistence of these pollutants means their effects will be felt for generations. “To be honest, I cry,” Brahney admitted. “There’s no walking this back. These particles don’t break down on a relevant time scale. We’re not escaping this.”

The Time to Act Is Now

While we can’t reverse all the damage, we can take steps to slow the spread of microplastics and chemical pollution. Individual actions, combined with systemic change, can help protect future generations from an even more toxic world.

Keep up with environmental and health updates with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Pope Francis’s Health Battle: Entering the Fourth Week of Recovery

Que Onda Editorial
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Pope Francis’s Health Battle: Entering the Fourth Week of Recovery

Hospitalization and Health Status
Pope Francis’s recovery from double pneumonia has now entered its fourth week, raising questions about the future of his papacy. The 88-year-old pontiff remains at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on February 14, just ahead of the 12th anniversary of his election as pope.

Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, his condition escalated into a complex respiratory tract infection and double pneumonia. However, recent reports indicate he has remained stable for over a week, with no fever, respiratory crises, and good oxygen levels in his blood. While doctors note his response to therapy as positive, they maintain a ‘guarded’ prognosis, meaning he is not entirely out of danger.

Continued Governance and Spiritual Engagement
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis continues to govern the Catholic Church. On Sunday, he held his third meeting at the hospital with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, demonstrating his commitment to overseeing church affairs.

The pontiff also followed the opening of a weeklong spiritual retreat by videoconference on Monday. However, he was not seen or heard by the priests, bishops, and cardinals gathered in the Vatican auditorium. During this retreat, led by the Rev. Roberto Pasolini, the Pope participated remotely in spiritual communion. The theme of the retreat, ‘The hope of eternal life,’ had been chosen well before Francis’s hospitalization.

A Milestone Anniversary in Absence
This week marks the 12th anniversary of Pope Francis’s election, making him the 266th pope, the first Jesuit pope, and the first Latin American pope in history. This will be the first anniversary celebrated without his presence, as the Vatican acknowledges the milestone in his absence.

While Pope Francis has previously praised his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, for stepping down due to health concerns, he has consistently stated that he views the role of the pope as a lifelong commitment. As recently as last year, he reaffirmed that he had no intention of resigning.

A Message of Compassion and Faith
Despite his health struggles, Pope Francis continues to share messages of hope and compassion. On Sunday, a statement from his official X account read:

“I think of the many people who find various ways to be close to the sick, becoming a sign of the Lord’s presence for them. We need this ‘miracle of tenderness’ to accompany those who face adversity, in order to bring a little light into the night of pain.”

The Vatican and the Catholic community around the world remain hopeful for the pontiff’s full recovery as he continues to receive medical care and spiritual support.

Keep up with Pope Francis’ recovery with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Chilly start to Spring Break is quickly replaced with near record heat later this week.

ABC13 Houston
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Chilly start to Spring Break is quickly replaced with near record heat later this week.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We have chilly conditions to start off Spring Break week, but that’s quickly replaced with near-record heat later this week.

After a cool and cloudy Sunday, clouds have cleared and temperatures have fallen into the low 40s this Monday morning. And while you’ll want a jacket early, you won’t need one later in the day with high temperatures rising into the low 70s. So while Monday will be off to a cold start, the sunshine and calm breeze will help make it a brighter day and great start to Spring Break week!

Do we have any major weather changes coming during Spring Break?

Calm and clear weather kicks off Spring Break on Monday and Tuesday with more of an active end to the week. By Wednesday temperatures we’ll have a little more of a muggy morning and warmer afternoon with morning lows in the low 60s and afternoon highs in the low 80s. And Wednesday is when our next weather system will move into Texas. A weak cold front will pass by Houston later in the day. Right now there’s a small chance for showers and storms Wednesday evening, and then Thursday morning could be slightly cooler with temperatures start in the upper 50s. There’s not much staying power with that cool front because by Thursday afternoon temperatures will soar into the upper 80s and be back there for Friday.

Are we done with freezes now?

It sure looks that way! On average, Houston’s last night in the 30s occurs around mid March. If we see any signs of a light freeze or frost on the horizon, we’ll be sure to let you know! Otherwise, it’s generally considered safe to put plants into the ground if you haven’t done so already.

Speaking of spring, what’s the latest on pollen?

While these recent cold fronts have brought an uptick in Cedar pollen, the first few counts of Oak pollen have started to show up locally. So if you haven’t already, now’s the time to begin to do what you need to do to take care of your seasonal allergies!

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Sheinbaum Rallies Supporters as Mexico Navigates U.S. Tariff Suspension

Que Onda Editorial
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Sheinbaum Rallies Supporters as Mexico Navigates U.S. Tariff Suspension

A jubilant atmosphere swept through the Zocalo as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum marked a diplomatic victory with a grand celebration. Tens of thousands gathered in the capital’s historic square on Sunday after the U.S. suspended tariffs on Mexican goods for a second consecutive month, a move seen as a crucial win for Mexico’s sovereignty and economy.

The event, initially intended as a platform for Sheinbaum to outline retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, transformed into a vibrant display of national unity after a phone conversation between Sheinbaum and President Trump led to the suspension. Enthusiastic chants of “Presidenta, Presidenta” echoed through the square as mariachi bands played, setting a festive tone for the rally.

A Symbolic Gathering in Mexico’s Political Heart

The Zocalo, a site of historic political mobilizations, was filled with supporters from across Mexico, many arriving by bus from distant states such as Sinaloa and Chiapas. Union leader Miguel Medina confirmed that his organization transported 3,500 environmental workers to the rally, providing meals and transport as a show of solidarity with the Sheinbaum administration.

Dressed in white caps adorned with the Mexican flag and waving banners in Morena’s signature white and maroon colors, the crowd braved the scorching sun, using parasols emblazoned with Sheinbaum’s name to shield themselves from the heat.

“This is an achievement for everyone,” Sheinbaum declared, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in preserving Mexico’s economic stability and bilateral relations with the U.S. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, economic analysts warn that the nation faces considerable challenges, including sluggish growth and uncertainty surrounding Trump’s trade policies.

Tariff Concerns Linger

Although the recent agreement temporarily halts tariffs on certain goods under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), experts caution that up to 40% of Mexican exports could still be affected due to non-compliance with regional content requirements. With over $600 billion in exports last year—80% of which went to the U.S.—Mexico remains vulnerable to shifts in American trade policy.

The Sheinbaum administration has worked diligently to address U.S. concerns, particularly regarding border security and fentanyl trafficking. In February, Mexico deployed 10,000 National Guard troops to its northern border, leading to significant arrests and drug seizures. Last week’s diplomatic breakthrough was further reinforced by Mexico’s extradition of 29 high-profile drug suspects to the U.S., a gesture aimed at demonstrating cooperation with Washington.

Balancing Diplomacy and Sovereignty

While Sheinbaum has maintained a firm yet diplomatic stance in negotiations with Trump, she also underscored Mexico’s historical struggle with U.S. intervention. Acknowledging past conflicts while advocating for mutual respect, she reassured the crowd that her administration remains committed to fostering strong cross-border ties.

“We have no intention of harming President Trump,” Sheinbaum stated. “We are determined to support him, particularly by preventing fentanyl from reaching young Americans.”

For many, Sheinbaum’s approach has bolstered confidence in her leadership. Benito González, a taxi driver from Hidalgo, expressed admiration for her composed diplomacy. “Her ability to maintain dialogue with Trump is incredible,” he said. “I believe what she believes: that we need the North.”

As Mexico navigates an uncertain economic landscape, Sheinbaum’s administration faces mounting pressure to secure long-term trade stability while asserting the nation’s sovereignty. The road ahead remains complex, but for now, the rally in the Zocalo stands as a powerful testament to national resilience and unity.

Keep up with U.S.-Mexico relations with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Palestinian Activist Arrested Amid Trump Administration Crackdown on Student Protests

Que Onda Editorial
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Palestinian Activist Arrested Amid Trump Administration Crackdown on Student Protests

Federal immigration agents arrested Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil on Saturday in a move seen as a major escalation of the Trump administration’s policy targeting student protesters.

Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student, was detained at his university-owned apartment by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.

According to his attorney, Amy Greer, ICE agents cited State Department orders revoking Khalil’s student visa. When informed that he was a legal permanent resident with a green card, the agents responded that they were revoking that status instead.

A Crackdown on Student Protesters

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) later confirmed Khalil’s arrest, linking it to President Trump’s executive orders addressing campus protests and allegations of antisemitism. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated that the arrest was carried out in line with efforts to prevent individuals “aligned with Hamas” from remaining in the country.

Khalil’s arrest marks the first known deportation attempt related to last spring’s student-led demonstrations against the war in Gaza. The Trump administration has claimed that participation in such protests constitutes grounds for deportation, arguing that support for Hamas invalidates legal residency rights.

ICE agents reportedly also threatened to detain Khalil’s wife, an American citizen who is eight months pregnant, further heightening concerns about the aggressive nature of the arrest. Khalil was initially believed to be held at an immigration detention facility in New Jersey, but his whereabouts remained unknown as of Sunday evening.

Legal and Political Controversy

Legal experts have questioned the basis for Khalil’s detention, noting that green card holders can only be deported under specific legal grounds, such as criminal activity or ties to designated terrorist organizations. Camille Mackler, founder of Immigrant ARC, called the move “a retaliatory action against someone who expressed an opinion the Trump administration didn’t like.”

Khalil, who received his master’s degree from Columbia’s School of International Affairs in December, played a key role in student negotiations with university officials regarding campus protests. His prominence in the movement has made him a target of pro-Israel groups, which recently urged the administration to pursue deportation proceedings against him.

University and Government Response

Columbia University has declined to comment on Khalil’s detention but confirmed that law enforcement must present a warrant before entering campus property. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the administration’s stance on social media, stating that visas and green cards for individuals supporting Hamas would be revoked.

Columbia has also launched internal investigations into student activism, resulting in disciplinary action against dozens of students, including Khalil. University allegations against him include organizing unauthorized demonstrations and sharing social media posts critical of Zionism. Khalil maintains that many of the accusations against him are baseless, telling the Associated Press last week, “They just want to show Congress and right-wing politicians that they’re doing something, regardless of the stakes for students.”

The Trump administration’s decision to cut federal funding to Columbia over its handling of campus protests has further intensified scrutiny of the university’s response to student activism. With Khalil’s arrest, the debate over free speech, political activism, and immigration enforcement has reached new heights, raising concerns about the legal implications of targeting protesters under the guise of national security.

Keep up with immigration updates with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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