Columbia University faces a tense standoff as it issues an ultimatum to pro-Palestine protesters occupying the campus, with potential suspensions looming if they do not vacate by the set deadline.
Columbia University in New York has reached a standoff with pro-Palestine protesters who have occupied part of the campus. University President Minouche Shafik has announced that the protesters have until 2 pm on Monday to vacate their encampment or face suspension. This ultimatum follows failed negotiations where the university declined protesters’ demands for divestment from Israel, instead suggesting investments in Gaza’s health and education sectors.
The protest at Columbia is a response to Israel’s recent six-month military action in Gaza, which has sparked similar demonstrations across US campuses, including New York University and the University of Southern California. These protests have been marked by multiple arrests and confrontations with law enforcement, as seen in an incident involving a professor at Emory University who was charged with battery during a protest.
Complicating the situation at Columbia are allegations of antisemitism, with Jewish students reporting incidents of threats. Protesters, however, argue that these claims are being used to undermine legitimate criticisms of Israel.
Amidst these tensions, Senator Bernie Sanders has publicly supported the right to criticize Israel’s government actions, distinguishing it from antisemitism, and emphasized the importance of addressing the humanitarian issues in Gaza.
The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches, with protesters at Columbia resolute on staying put and university officials firm on their stance against the encampment.
