US Universities Withhold Diplomas Over Pro-Palestinian Activism Amid Rising Campus Antisemitism

Recent events have intensified debates around Israel, Palestine, and free speech on American college campuses. Cecilia Culver, a George Washington University graduate, delivered a speech condemning Israeli actions in Gaza as genocide and apartheid, which led to her being barred from campus and university events amid accusations of deviating from her approved remarks. Across the country, universities are increasingly disciplining pro-Palestinian activists, including withholding diplomas, actions critics say suppress political expression and reflect pressure from the Trump administration, which has penalized institutions over alleged antisemitism. In Washington, D.C., Elias Rodriguez, a far-left activist, murdered two Israeli embassy workers, citing Gaza as his motive and highlighting concerns about radicalization linked to pro-Palestinian movements on campuses. The Israeli Embassy mourned the victims, attributing the violence to a growing antisemitism fostered by extremist left-wing groups and criticizing associated political factions. Meanwhile, Palestinian voices emphasize the role of Israeli universities in supporting the military occupation and repression, advocating for academic boycotts as part of broader resistance efforts.