Students protesting the Israel-Hamas war at universities across the U.S. are facing backlash as reports of antisemitic activity among the protesters have emerged. The demonstrations, demanding schools to cut financial ties to Israel and divest from companies involved in the conflict, have escalated tensions on campuses.
At Northeastern University in Boston, police in riot gear cleared an encampment after reports of antisemitic slurs being used by protesters. Similar actions were taken at the University of Pennsylvania, where an encampment was disbanded due to violations of the school’s policies and state and federal laws.
The use of law enforcement to clear protests has led to scuffles and arrests at various universities, prompting faculty members to pass votes of no confidence in their leadership. The pressure on school officials is mounting as graduation ceremonies approach, with protests showing no signs of slowing down.
In response to the protests, some universities have closed campuses, while others have initiated task forces to address the situation. Despite efforts to engage in dialogue, tensions remain high as students continue to demand divestment from Israel.
The wave of protests has even reached overseas, with students at the Paris Institute of Political Studies in France blocking access to a campus building. The impact of these protests is being felt globally, as universities grapple with how to address the demands of the demonstrators while ensuring the safety and well-being of all students on campus.