Columbia University has suspended more than 65 students following a pro-Palestinian protest at Butler Library. The demonstration on Wednesday resulted in 80 arrests, as confirmed by university officials on Friday. A university spokesperson stated that the suspended students are currently under "interim suspension" while an investigation is underway.
Additionally, a total of 33 individuals from affiliated schools have been prohibited from accessing the university’s Morning side Heights campus. Alumni who took part in the protest are also restricted from returning to the campus. During the protest, a group of activists entered Butler Library, the university's main library. Eyewitness accounts and social media footage revealed security personnel confronting the protesters forcefully, many of whom were wearing keffiyehs, a traditional headscarf linked to Palestinians. As the demonstration escalated, reports indicated that the library was occupied.
Numerous American universities have been experiencing protests against what participants describe as a genocidal war being waged by the Israeli regime on the Gaza Strip since October 2023. This regime is considered Washington's closest ally in the West Asia region. Protesters have expressed their shock and anger over the conflict, which has resulted in the deaths of approximately 52,800 Palestinians, predominantly women and children. They have also criticized the unwavering American support for the war, which includes military aid and political backing.
University Accused of Playing the 'Anti-Semitism' Card
American officials have been attempting to label pro-Palestinian activists as “anti-Semites.” In response to recent suspensions, Acting President Claire Shipman reiterated this stance, stating that the university “unequivocally rejects anti-Semitism and all other forms of harassment and discrimination.”
To intensify its response to these demonstrations, Columbia has permitted federal immigration agents on campus. The university administration has also asserted that these protests disrupted the “academic environment” and “violated university policies.”
