Student protests over the Israel-Hamas war roil US campuses ahead of graduations

Student protests have erupted across U.S. college campuses in response to the Israel-Hamas war, creating significant disruptions ahead of graduation ceremonies. The protests began after a deadly attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, which led to a severe Israeli offensive in Gaza. Pro-Palestinian students have been setting up encampments on campuses, advocating for their universities to sever financial ties with Israel and to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.

These demonstrations have led to numerous arrests and confrontations, with over 900 arrests nationwide since the conflict’s escalation. High-profile incidents include the arrest of over 100 protesters at Columbia University and significant police presence and arrests at other institutions like UCLA and Northeastern University. Some universities, such as the University of Southern California, have even canceled major events like graduation ceremonies in response to the disruptions.

The protests have sparked a broader debate about the role of universities in political conflicts and the limits of protest on campus. They also highlight the ongoing tension between advocacy for Palestinian rights and accusations of antisemitism in the context of campus activism. As graduation approaches, universities are striving to balance security, free expression, and the need to maintain order.

Source: AP News