BOSTON, USA: Police detained nearly 200 individuals across three US universities on Saturday during the clearance of pro-Palestinian encampments, marking the latest flare-up of tensions sparked by demonstrations against Israel’s conflict with Hamas.
In Boston, approximately 100 people were detained as law enforcement dispersed a protest camp at Northeastern University, responding to reports of “virulent anti-Semitic slurs” amidst the demonstrations.
Similarly, Arizona State University witnessed the arrest of 69 individuals for trespassing after an unauthorized encampment was erected on campus, prompting repeated orders to disperse.
In Indiana University, 23 people were arrested as police cleared a campus protest camp, with officers employing riot gear to manage the situation.
The protesters advocate for a ceasefire in Israel’s war with Hamas and call for universities to sever ties with Israel and affiliated companies, alleging profiteering from the conflict.
The protests have posed challenges for university administrators, navigating the delicate balance between upholding free expression and addressing concerns of anti-Semitism and hate speech.
Northeastern University announced that the campus area was secured following the protests, attributing the unrest to external organizers with no affiliation to the institution.
Despite disbandment orders from university presidents, encampments persisted at the University of Pennsylvania, while Columbia University in New York remained relatively calm.
Columbia University stated it would not recall police to campus, opting for a measured response amidst growing tensions.
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, closed its campus following repeated attempts by protesters to access restricted areas.
In Canada, McGill University witnessed its first protest camp, prompting concerns over potential escalation.
The demonstrations reflect global solidarity with Palestinians amidst escalating violence in the region, with Hamas launching attacks on Israel on October 7, resulting in casualties on both sides.
A news agency count of Israeli official numbers indicates that on October 7, Hamas operatives carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of about 1,170 persons.
Over 250 individuals were kidnapped. Israel believes that 129 people are still in Gaza, of which the IDF claims 34 are killed.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, over 34000 people have died in Gaza as a result of Israel’s retaliatory actions, the majority of whom were women and children.
