NEW YORK: Tensions rose Monday at Columbia University, the epicenter of pro-Palestinian protests across US campuses, with college authorities and student demonstrators in open conflict after talks failed.
In a weekend marked by heightened activism, approximately 275 persons were arrested at four separate campuses, prompting calls from the White House for demonstrations to remain peaceful. At Columbia University, which has seen an exodus of Jewish students from its campus, authorities issued a demand for the clearance of the protestors’ encampment and reiterated the university’s stance against divesting financial holdings linked to Israel—a primary demand of the demonstrators.
Despite the university’s ultimatum and threats of disciplinary action, student protestors vowed to defend their encampment on the institution’s main lawn, underscoring their commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights.
Columbia University President Minouche Shafik expressed regret over the breakdown of negotiations, emphasizing the need to uphold free speech rights. Shafik acknowledged the intolerable atmosphere on campus and reiterated the university’s commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
However, protest organizers maintained that their actions were directed at the Israeli government and its handling of the conflict in Gaza, asserting that any threatening incidents were instigated by external agitators rather than student participants.
In response to the impasse, student protestors mobilized to protect the encampment ahead of a deadline imposed by the university to clear the tents or face disciplinary consequences. Despite efforts to reach a resolution through dialogue, the university’s offer to expedite a review of divestment proposals and enhance transparency failed to bridge the gap between the opposing parties.
