Iran's Attack on Israel Sparks Columbia University Lawsuit Over Alleged Fart Spray Incident

A Columbia University student, identified as "John Doe," has filed a lawsuit against the Ivy League institution, alleging selective enforcement of policies and unfair treatment after he was suspended for an incident involving a "fart spray" during a pro-Palestinian protest. 

According to the lawsuit, the student, who is a Jewish Hispanic immigrant holding dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship and a former member of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), attended a pro-Palestinian rally on Jan. 19, where he used a non-toxic "fart" spray, purchased for $26.11 on Amazon, as an expression of speech. The university swiftly placed the student on interim suspension and publicly accused him of a hate crime, leading to safety concerns and alleged antisemitic threats against him.

Despite seeking help from the university, the student claimed to have received no support and faced doxxing, threats and isolation, forcing him to leave his apartment and distance himself from loved ones. Governor Kathy Hochul expressed support for a police investigation into the matter and called for potential charges, labeling the incident as unacceptable. The student's attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman, emphasized that the spray was a novelty item and criticized the fundraising efforts of students who claimed to have been injured.

University's Reaction

The lawsuit also highlighted a series of alleged antisemitic incidents at the university spanning several decades and accused administrative failure to protect Jewish students following a past Hamas attack on Israel. It pointed out that the university's response, including an investigation and the subsequent impact on the student's academic progress, has led to the delay of his graduation and potential long-term consequences.

The student is seeking unspecified damages as a result of the alleged biased treatment and its impact on his future. In response to the lawsuit, a university spokesperson refrained from commenting, citing the institution's policy on pending litigation.