Columbia University Protests: New York Police Department Intervention
Following authorisation from Columbia University, the New York Police Department deployed officers to the university campus in response to ongoing protests.
Police Intervention at Columbia University
New York City police moved in on Columbia University late Tuesday, encountering dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters still occupying parts of the campus. After entering the campus, a contingent of police officers approached Hamilton Hall, the administration building that students had been occupying.
Protesters’ Actions and Police Response
Police officers yelled as they marched up to the barricaded entrance of Hamilton Hall, an academic building that protesters had broken into and seized control of in the early morning hours of Tuesday. A long line of police officers was seen climbing into the building through a second-story window, using a vehicle with a ladder to gain access to the upper floor.
Background of the Protests
Students had set up tents again after a previous police clearance on April 18, leading to over 100 arrests. The students were protesting Israeli military action in Gaza and demanding the school divest from companies profiting from the conflict.
Similar protests have occurred across at least nine states, resulting in over 1,000 arrests following confrontations between protesters and police in riot gear.
Official Responses and Condemnations
New York City Mayor Eric Adams advised protesters to end the situation peacefully, while the White House condemned the standoffs at Columbia and California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt.
The National Security Council spokesperson expressed President Joe Biden’s disapproval of students occupying academic buildings as a form of protest.
Resolution Attempts and Consequences
Other colleges have sought to negotiate agreements with demonstrators to ensure peaceful commencement ceremonies. Northwestern University reached an agreement with protesters on its campus, allowing peaceful demonstrations to continue.
Columbia University has warned that students occupying the building may face expulsion.
Conflict in Gaza
The Gaza war began with an attack by Hamas militants on Israel, resulting in casualties on both sides. The retaliatory offensive by Israel has led to further casualties in Gaza, with a significant impact on civilians.
