Anti-Israel protesters carrying flares marched towards NYPD headquarters after over 150 students were reportedly arrested at NYU. Videos from the protest show demonstrators holding flares, waving flags, and chanting “Gaza” as they marched towards One Police Plaza. NYPD officers in riot gear monitored the protesters as they chanted “We will free Palestine within our lifetime.” By late Monday, the number of protesters arrested had risen to over 150 as the NYU camp was dispersed.
NYU spokesperson stated that the protesters were disorderly, disruptive, and antagonizing, prompting the university to request NYPD intervention. The protesters were calling for NYU to divest from weapons manufacturers and end its relationship with Tel Aviv University. Some staff from the university joined the rally and videos online showed NYU faculty members linking arms to prevent the NYPD from approaching the student encampment.
The protests at NYU were part of a larger wave of demonstrations across the city and the nation, with college campuses becoming hotbeds of anti-Semitic protests following Hamas’ attack on Israel. Over 100 people were also arrested at Columbia University, leading to classes being shifted online for safety reasons. A prominent rabbi urged students to stay home, and university officials allowed them to take online classes.
Last week, a congressional hearing at Columbia University addressed the issue of anti-Semitism on campus, while dozens were arrested at Yale on Monday. Other protests have been set up at various university campuses from Michigan to Massachusetts. These demonstrations have been a response to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, leading to a rise in anti-Semitic sentiment and activism on college campuses. The protestors are calling for divestment from Israel and an end to relationships with Israeli institutions.
The protests at NYU and other universities have highlighted the growing tension around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, leading to arrests, online classes, and increased safety measures on campuses. The demonstration at NYU saw a significant number of arrests and faculty members joining in the rally, while similar protests were taking place on campuses across the country. These protests are part of a larger movement calling for solidarity with Palestine and an end to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The escalating situation at NYU and other universities reflects the broader impact of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with anti-Semitic sentiments on the rise and protests becoming more common on college campuses. The protests have led to arrests, disruptions in regular academic activities, and increased safety concerns for students. The demonstrations are part of a larger movement advocating for divestment from companies supporting Israel and a push for universities to sever ties with Israeli institutions as a form of solidarity with Palestine.
