Ripples of Gaza war felt in New York, protesters arrested
What's the story
The ripple effects of the Israel-Hamas war were felt as far as the United States after students at New York University (NYU) took to the streets to call for a ceasefire. The protest on Monday led to arrest of several students as the New York Police Department attempted to disperse a "liberated zone" established by pro-Palestine advocates on campus. Videos that circulated online showed police officers clashing with student protestors who had formed a human barrier in the disputed area.
Escalation
Pro-Palestine advocates urge NYU to condemn Israel's actions in Gaza
As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu-led administration gears up to attack Rafah, pro-Palestine advocates are urging the NYU to condemn Israel's assault on Gaza. In an effort to curb the protest, police officials warned students to leave the concerned area—an order they flouted. According to reports, several Jewish students have expressed concerns about their safety on campus due to a perceived rise in antisemitism triggered by these protests.
Twitter Post
Visuals: Protest at NYU
🇵🇸NOW: At jail support waiting for those arrested at the NYU student encampment to be released! Spirits are high! pic.twitter.com/Rz1YlAV1Ja
— Radio Free Amanda 余美娜 (@catcontentonly) April 23, 2024
University statement
NYU's Global Campus Safety issues statement
Meanwhile, the NYU's Global Campus Safety announced that student protestors had violated established boundaries at a specific location on campus. They further noted the breach of barricades led to disorderly, disruptive, and antagonizing behavior compromising the safety and security of the community. Despite the university's warning that protestors needed to clear the area by 4:00pm to avoid any consequences, police began arresting students at 8:30pm local time after disturbances started.
Official response
White House condemns 'blatantly antisemitic' statements during protest
The White House has also weighed in on the issue, condemning "blatantly antisemitic" statements made during pro-Palestinian protests at universities. "While every American has the right to peaceful protest, calls for violence and physical intimidation targeting Jewish students and the Jewish community are blatantly antisemitic, unconscionable, and dangerous," it said in a statement.
Precaution
Columbia University suspends in-person classes for rest of spring semester
In related developments, Columbia University in New York City, known for its pro-Palestinian demonstrations, has decided to suspend in-person classes for the rest of the spring semester and adopt a hybrid model. The university stated, "Safety is our highest priority as we strive to support our students' learning and all the required academic operations." This decision comes amidst escalating tensions on campuses across the city in view of the Israel-Hamas conflict.