Police in New York City forcefully enter Columbia University campus and detain demonstrators supporting Palestine

New York City police descended on Columbia University’s campus in a dramatic showdown with pro-Palestinian protesters on Tuesday night. The tense situation unfolded as officers in riot gear arrested dozens of demonstrators who had seized a university building, sparking memories of past student-led protests.

The arrests came after a week-long stand-off between students demanding the university divest from companies profiting from Israel and the administration led by President Minouche Shafik. The Gaza Solidarity Encampment, as the protesters called it, pushed the boundaries of free speech and activism at the renowned university.

Police breached the occupied building, Hamilton Hall, through a second-floor window, leading to the arrest of students with tied wrists. Flash grenades were detonated, and pepper spray was used as protesters chanted for Palestinian freedom and the release of their peers.

The university defended the police intervention, citing threats made to staff and vandalism within the building. The escalating tensions on campus have drawn attention from the White House, with President Joe Biden condemning the students’ actions.

The situation at Columbia University reflects a broader wave of demonstrations sparked by the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The administration’s attempts to negotiate with the students failed, leading to the occupation of Hamilton Hall and threats of expulsion.

As the campus remains on high alert, with security measures in place and essential staff advised to stay away, the clash between protesters and authorities underscores the deep divisions and passionate activism surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.