- Campus protests at UCLA and Columbia University dispersed by police
- Clash erupts between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups
- Significant surge in student activism reminiscent of past anti-racism protests
Eko hot blog reports that Tensions escalated on Wednesday as clashes broke out between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups on two major U.S. campuses.
At UCLA, pro-Israel supporters confronted pro-Palestinian protesters, while police at Columbia University in New York cleared a demonstration.
Eyewitness footage from UCLA, confirmed by Reuters, depicted confrontations as pro-Israel demonstrators attempted to breach makeshift barricades erected by pro-Palestinian activists.
UCLA Chancellor Gene Block announced an investigation into the incident, warning of potential consequences for those involved.
Clash erupts as police disperse campus protests in UCLA
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the violence, calling for an investigation.
Meanwhile, in New York, police arrested scores of pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupying Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall.
The clashes spread to City College of New York, where around 300 people were arrested.
These events mark a significant surge in student activism, reminiscent of the anti-racism protests of 2020.
Students across the U.S. have mobilized against Israel’s actions in Gaza, demanding divestment from companies supporting the Israeli government.
The clashes come amidst broader political tensions, with some accusing university administrators of ignoring antisemitism.
President Joe Biden’s upcoming speech on antisemitism underscores the gravity of the situation, while Republican figures like Donald Trump have praised law enforcement’s actions.
The incidents highlight the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, echoing a broader debate on campus about free speech, activism, and the role of universities in global politics.