On Wednesday, Columbia University became the scene of heightened tensions as pro-Palestinian protesters occupied Butler Library, resulting in multiple injuries and over 70 arrests by New York police.
Dozens Arrested During Pro-Palestinian Protest at Columbia University
Dozens Arrested During Pro-Palestinian Protest at Columbia University
Tensions escalate as protesters occupy campus library, leading to injuries and arrests.
In a dramatic confrontation, protesters stormed into Columbia University’s Butler Library, chanting slogans in support of Palestine. This aggressive action led to injuries among university security staff and a call for police assistance. Videos circulating on social media captured the chaotic moments inside the library, showcasing demonstrators wearing keffiyeh headscarves and taking defiant stances against a long-standing ban on face coverings during protests, a policy enforced by the Trump administration.
Columbia University President Claire Shipman condemned the actions of the protesters, deeming them “outrageous.” She emphasized the disruption caused to students preparing for final exams and called on the NYPD for assistance, noting that many of the demonstrators were not affiliated with the university.
According to reports from the Columbia Spectator, the on-campus newspaper, a total of over 70 protesters were arrested. Those inside the library faced a standoff with public safety officers, who demanded identification. Protesters expressed their frustration online, claiming they stood against what they called “violent repression” from the university.
The incident marks a critical moment for Columbia University, notably being the first instance requiring police intervention since a similar pro-Palestinian occupation over a year ago. The university has found itself at the center of national scrutiny, especially following remarks from former President Trump, who criticized institutions for tolerating antisemitism and warned of funding repercussions for Columbia and others that have seen unrest on their campuses.
As tensions remained high, Columbia’s administration issued pleas for students to avoid the library while Mayor Eric Adams reiterated the city’s stance against hate and violence. The protest highlighted ongoing debates surrounding U.S. support for Israel amidst rising fervor on college campuses across the nation.
Columbia University President Claire Shipman condemned the actions of the protesters, deeming them “outrageous.” She emphasized the disruption caused to students preparing for final exams and called on the NYPD for assistance, noting that many of the demonstrators were not affiliated with the university.
According to reports from the Columbia Spectator, the on-campus newspaper, a total of over 70 protesters were arrested. Those inside the library faced a standoff with public safety officers, who demanded identification. Protesters expressed their frustration online, claiming they stood against what they called “violent repression” from the university.
The incident marks a critical moment for Columbia University, notably being the first instance requiring police intervention since a similar pro-Palestinian occupation over a year ago. The university has found itself at the center of national scrutiny, especially following remarks from former President Trump, who criticized institutions for tolerating antisemitism and warned of funding repercussions for Columbia and others that have seen unrest on their campuses.
As tensions remained high, Columbia’s administration issued pleas for students to avoid the library while Mayor Eric Adams reiterated the city’s stance against hate and violence. The protest highlighted ongoing debates surrounding U.S. support for Israel amidst rising fervor on college campuses across the nation.
