From Columbia to MIT, campus protests escalate as tensions rise over the Israel-Gaza conflict, leading to numerous arrests and class disruptions.

Campus protests related to the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict have intensified across the United States, resulting in mass arrests and widespread disruptions at several leading universities. The demonstrations, which began at Columbia and Yale, have now spread to institutions including Berkeley, MIT, and others, reflecting the heated debates and increasing tension over the conflict and issues of free speech.

At New York University (NYU), the situation escalated on Monday night as police intervened to disperse protestors, resulting in a series of arrests. Earlier in the day, a similar crackdown occurred at Yale University where nearly 50 protestors were detained after hundreds gathered, many refusing to leave despite requests from authorities. Columbia University has also responded to the protests by shifting to virtual classes after arresting more than 100 demonstrators last week.

The protests have been marked by the establishment of “encampments” at various campuses, where students are demanding universities divest from weapons manufacturers and entities involved in the Israeli occupation. This movement has not only seen participation from students but has also attracted external groups, further complicating the dynamics on campuses.

Authorities and university officials are increasingly concerned about incidents of intimidation and harassment linked to these protests. At NYU, reports of intimidating chants and several antisemitic incidents have surfaced, a pattern that is reportedly emerging at other universities as well. This surge in hostility has prompted interventions not just from university administrations but also from political figures.

President Joe Biden commented on the situation, condemning both the antisemitic elements of the protests and the lack of understanding towards the Palestinians. The White House has reiterated its stance against antisemitism at college protests, emphasizing the need for a balanced and informed approach to such sensitive international issues.

The academic community remains divided. Some faculty members have criticized the decision to call in police, arguing for more peaceful means of handling the protests and respecting the right to peaceful assembly. Meanwhile, organizations like the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia have called for an urgent reevaluation of the university’s response to the protests, advocating for adherence to university rules that recommend involving outside authorities only when there is a clear and present danger.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which escalated following a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, has led to significant casualties and has sparked a broader international debate. In the U.S., this has translated into not only campus protests but also major demonstrations blocking roads and impacting cities nationwide.

As universities and communities grapple with these complex issues, the focus remains on finding a resolution that ensures safety and free expression without escalating conflicts or infringing on academic freedoms.