Anti-Israel Protests Force Columbia University Campus Closure Ahead of Final Exams

Following a series of escalating protests on the campus of Columbia University, the administration has made the decision to close the university indefinitely. The closure comes in the wake of a group of protesters breaking into an academic building in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The university announced that access to the Morningside campus has been restricted to specific groups, with no additional access granted until further notice.

The safety of students has been cited as a priority by the university, with limitations on access to the campus being instated immediately. Only students residing in designated residential buildings on campus and essential employees are allowed access to the campus. This restriction will remain in place until circumstances allow otherwise, with only one access point onto the campus being monitored by security personnel.

Response and Additional Measures

In response to the situation, the university has urged the community to understand the current crisis and has emphasized the paramount importance of every member's safety. Columbia University President Minouche Shafik has called for law enforcement to intervene after attempts to negotiate with the protesters were unsuccessful.

Protest Details and Demands

The protest, led by an anti-Israel mob, involved the occupation of Hamilton Hall and the barricading of entrances. Footage of the protest showed the demonstrators expressing support for Hamas and Palestinians in Gaza, while making demands related to the university's financial support of Israel, transparency in investments, and amnesty for protesting students.