Protests Over Israel-Hamas War Lead to Hundreds of Arrests on US College Campuses

Following the escalation of tensions between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, a wave of pro-Palestinian protests has engulfed college campuses across the United States.

Emerson College, Boston

Chaos erupted overnight as police attempted to disband a pro-Palestinian encampment at Emerson College in Boston, resulting in the arrest of 108 individuals. Four police officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the operation. The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear in Boston Municipal Court following the incident. The encampment was subsequently cleared by law enforcement.

Harvard University, Cambridge

In a bid to proactively manage protests, Harvard University enforced restrictions on access to Harvard Yard and mandated permissions for the setup of tents and tables. Despite these measures, protesters managed to establish a camp with 14 tents following a demonstration against the university's suspension of the Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee. Demands from students include the severance of financial ties with Israel and the divestment from companies facilitating the ongoing conflict.

University of Southern California

Ninety-three individuals were arrested at the University of Southern California on charges of trespassing, with no reported injuries. The university had previously called off a commencement speech by the pro-Palestinian valedictorian due to safety concerns, further intensifying tensions on the campus.

California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt

Students at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, barricaded inside a building for three consecutive days, resulting in the closure of the campus and the transition to virtual classes.

At the University of Texas at Austin, a significant police presence, including mounted officers, intervened in protests and made 34 arrests, following the directives of the university and Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The actions of law enforcement sparked criticism from students, who denounced the arrests as an overreaction.

Columbia University, New York

At Columbia University, ongoing negotiations between the administration and students persisted, as the university sought to resolve an encampment erected by protesting students. Efforts to reach a resolution were extended for an additional 48 hours. The escalating tensions prompted a visit from U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who called for the university president to resign if order could not be restored. The situation drew attention from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who refuted the potential deployment of the National Guard, emphasizing the priority of restoring order through dialogue.