Pro-Palestinian Protesters Occupy Columbia Library, Injuring Officers

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupied Columbia University's Butler Library during finals week, prompting a significant law enforcement response. The protesters, many masked, renamed the reading room, displayed Palestinian flags, and chanted in support of their cause while criticizing the university for its investments. Tensions escalated as public safety officers and contracted security attempted to contain the demonstration, resulting in injuries to two campus officers and reports of injuries among protesters. The university's acting president, Claire Shipman, condemned the disruption, stating that it violated campus policies and disrupted academic activities. New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the NYPD emphasized that while peaceful protest is respected, lawlessness would not be tolerated, leading to multiple arrests. Jewish groups and university officials expressed concern over the climate of fear and harassment, calling for accountability and stronger enforcement of campus safety measures.