Dozens Get Arrested in Columbia University Protest Over Palestine

(MENAFN) A pro-Palestinian demonstration at Columbia University turned confrontational Wednesday afternoon, with over 100 individuals occupying part of the main library and resulting in approximately 75 arrests.

The situation intensified rapidly as clashes broke out between the protesters and university security personnel. Demonstrators were forced back towards the library entrance, and two safety officers were injured during the altercation. Amid the turmoil, a fire alarm was activated.

The protesters chanted slogans such as "No cops. No K.K.K. No fascist U.S.A." and "Free Palestine."

At around 6 p.m. local time (2200 GMT), the New York Police Department entered Columbia University's main campus at the university's request and made arrests for trespassing.

This event represents the largest protest at Columbia University since the demonstrations in April 2024 and has led to the highest number of arrests so far.

Earlier in the week, Columbia University faculty and staff held vigils to protest the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's detention of three international students and pledged to continue these weekly vigils until all the students are released.

According to a statement from Claire Shipman, the university's acting president, "Disruptions to our academic activities will not be tolerated and are violations of our rules and policies; this is especially unacceptable while our students study and prepare for final exams."

New York City officials also reacted to the events. Mayor Eric Adams described the demonstrators' actions as "unacceptable."

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