Pro-Palestinian Protesters Ignore Drexel University's 

Pro-Palestinian protesters at Drexel University's campus in Philadelphia have defied the university president's request to disband their encampment. The number of arrests linked to campus demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war is nearing 3,000 nationwide, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing protests.

Drexel's campus is currently under lockdown, and classes are being conducted virtually as police are maintaining a presence to monitor the demonstration on the school's Korman Quad. Consequently, many Drexel employees have been instructed to work from home due to the situation.

President's Statement

In a statement released a day prior, Drexel President John Fry expressed his concern about the encampment, highlighting the significant disruption it has caused to normal university operations. He mentioned that there were distressing reports and images of anti-Semitic speech, signs, and chants by some participants, and threatened disciplinary action against Drexel students involved in the protest.

Nationwide Impact

The protests have not been limited to Drexel's campus. Across the country, nearly 3,000 individuals have been arrested in U.S. campuses over the past month, an unprecedented number reflecting the intensity of the demonstrations. While the upcoming summer break has led to a decrease in new arrests and calmer campuses, colleges remain vigilant for any disruptions to the upcoming commencement ceremonies.

International Impact

Even as the protests continue, international leaders are also addressing the situation. During a commencement ceremony at Morehouse College in Atlanta, President Joe Biden expressed his awareness of the voices of protest and called for "an immediate cease-fire" in Gaza and the return of hostages taken by Hamas, underscoring the global impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict.