House Speaker Mike Johnson is scheduled to visit Columbia University amid growing pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses across the United States. These demonstrations began at Columbia, where students have called for the university to divest from companies linked to Israel, prompting widespread suspensions and arrests. Johnson’s visit aims to address what he describes as “virulent antisemitism” at colleges. Democratic Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, has criticised the visit as divisive, and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has spoken out against the police response to these peaceful protests, which have resulted in numerous arrests.

Johnson has also called for the resignation of Columbia’s president, citing a failure to protect Jewish students, thereby intensifying the ongoing debate. The protests, reflecting a national response, are centred around demands for transparency concerning university investments and advocacy for divestment from Israel. This movement underscores a broader, divisive discourse on campuses concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, touching on issues of free speech and political activism.

Simultaneously, President Joe Biden is preparing to deliver the commencement address at Morehouse College in Georgia and West Point, amidst criticism from some Morehouse faculty and alumni. They challenge Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, suggesting it contradicts the values associated with figures like Martin Luther King Jr., traditionally revered at the institution. Despite the controversy, Morehouse College has affirmed its decision to host President Biden, emphasizing its commitment to progress and positive change. Biden’s upcoming speeches occur at a critical moment in his reelection campaign against former President Donald Trump, highlighting the intricate dynamics within the Democratic Party concerning foreign policy and racial justice.

Additionally, riot police have intervened in student protests at several U.S. universities, including the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Southern California. These actions were part of a broader wave of demonstrations advocating for Palestinian solidarity and demanding divestment from companies supplying weapons to Israel. Arrests have also occurred at Ohio State and Columbia, reflecting a growing solidarity movement among students nationwide supporting Palestine amidst rising tensions on campuses. The developments are part of a larger narrative of heightened activity and advocacy on university campuses regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.