Over 100 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested at Columbia University in New York as police dismantled an encampment set up by students demonstrating against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The demonstration, which resulted in the arrests of more than 100 individuals, including students, occurred as police moved to clear tents erected by protesters on the university campus. Among those arrested were students suspended from both Columbia and Barnard College, including Isra Hirsi, daughter of US Representative Ilhan Omar.
Columbia University President Nemat Shafik authorized the police action, citing violations of university policies regarding unauthorized demonstrations and a lack of cooperation with administrators.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams stated that more than 108 individuals were arrested for trespassing, with two facing charges of obstructing government administration. He emphasized the balance between free speech rights and maintaining order on campus.
The move to clear the encampment followed a congressional hearing where Shafik faced questions regarding allegations of anti-Semitism on campus and challenges from Representative Omar concerning the treatment of pro-Palestinian protesters.
Columbia University, renowned for its academic prestige, has become a focal point for student activism amid the Israel-Gaza conflict, with protests both in support of and against the war.
The university announced the suspension of participating students and stated that formal notifications would be sent out. Isra Hirsi, among those suspended, vowed to continue advocating for transparency in Columbia’s investments and divestment from companies implicated in genocide.
The clash at Columbia University reflects a broader trend of demonstrations disrupting campuses and public spaces since the onset of the Israel-Gaza conflict. Additionally, at the University of Southern California, about 500 demonstrators marched in support of a Muslim student whose valedictorian speech was cancelled, allegedly due to her opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Israel’s assault on Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with thousands killed according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The conflict, which began after a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, has led to heightened tensions and increased activism worldwide.
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