Columbia University transitions to virtual classes to address Gaza protests

Columbia University and Yale University have been rocked by protests and arrests following the Israel-Hamas war, leading to a shift to online classes and a crackdown on antisemitism on campus.

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik made the decision to move classes online in an attempt to calm tensions as protests and scrutiny over antisemitism reached a boiling point. The move came after more than 100 protesters were arrested at the New York campus, with similar arrests at Yale University in Connecticut.

The protests have centered around demands for divestment from companies linked to Israel and calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. Both universities have faced intense political pressure and criticism for their handling of the situation.

Shafik emphasized the need for a “reset” in the face of escalating tensions, while Yale President Peter Salovey condemned acts of intimidation and harassment on campus.

The issue of antisemitism on campus has also drawn the attention of lawmakers, with Republican lawmakers questioning Columbia’s efforts to address the issue. Meanwhile, Jewish and Palestinian groups have raised concerns over the handling of the protests.

The controversy has led to resignations at other prestigious universities and legal actions against Columbia and other institutions for allegedly failing to address antisemitism.

As the situation continues to unfold, the universities are facing scrutiny over their handling of the protests and the broader issue of antisemitism on campus. The shift to online classes marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over free speech and campus activism.