Columbia University in New York has suspended more than 65 students following a pro-Palestinian protest at the campus library earlier this week. The university also forbade 33 people from entering the campus. Among them were alumni and students from connected institutions, such as Barnard College.
The demonstration, which took place at Butler Library, saw protesters entering the building and displaying Palestinian flags while writing slogans on furniture. Security intervention led to the arrest of approximately 80 people, with charges largely focused on trespassing and disorderly conduct.
A university spokesperson stated that the suspensions and campus bans are interim decisions, pending further investigation. Those on the forbidden list are not permitted to attend classes or utilize university facilities until further notice. The protest was dispersed by the New York City police upon an appeal from Columbia University officials, who were concerned that it was interfering with students’ ability to prepare for their final examinations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that his office is reviewing the visa status of international demonstrators, raising the possibility of deportation. This is consistent with other federal moves that targeted protesting international students.
The event has drawn polarizing responses, with some defending the students’ right to protest and others supporting the university’s measures to preserve campus order and security.
