Pro-Palestinian protests lead to arrests outside NYU’s Stern School of Business

NEW YORK — Tensions ran high at NYU on Monday as hundreds of protesters gathered in support of Palestinians, leading to clashes with police and arrests.

The protest began peacefully at Gould Plaza near the Stern School of Business, with demonstrators setting up tents and voicing their support for Palestine. However, the situation escalated when police moved in to dismantle the encampment just after 8:15 p.m. At least two dozen protesters were arrested and taken away in police buses, while others began throwing objects at officers.

“We stand with Palestine and we stand with the liberation of all people,” one protester declared.

Following the police intervention, many protesters relocated to West 3rd Street in Greenwich Village, while others marched peacefully in Lower Manhattan. The demonstration was part of a larger movement involving pro-Palestinian organizations calling for solidarity.

NYU officials cited a breach in barriers and disruptive behavior as reasons for police intervention. Protesters demanded acknowledgment of the ongoing genocide in Palestine and the safety of Palestinian students on campus.

Despite the tensions, some individuals from opposing sides engaged in constructive dialogue. An NYU junior emphasized the importance of seeking peaceful solutions, while a freshman highlighted the need for education and awareness.

In response to the events, NYU released a statement affirming support for freedom of expression while prioritizing student safety and maintaining a conducive learning environment. The university expressed disappointment over the escalation of the protest and the need for police intervention to ensure community safety.