Pro-Palestinian Protest at Columbia University Sparks Nearly 100 Arrests

Pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University escalated when demonstrators occupied the Butler Library, leading to clashes with university public safety officers and the intervention of the NYPD. Protesters, many masked, demanded the university divest from companies linked to Israel and weapons manufacturing, asserting their activism was about human rights and not antisemitism. The university, facing injuries to its safety officers and disruptions during finals week, requested police assistance to clear the library, resulting in nearly 100 arrests. Acting President Claire Shipman condemned the protesters' actions as dangerous and emphasized the need to protect the community. The protests also reflect broader tensions, with some Jewish students joining in solidarity, while the university faces criticism from political figures like Representative Elise Stefanik and President Trump, who labeled the demonstrations as anti-American. Local officials, including Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul, supported law enforcement's role in maintaining safety while acknowledging the right to peaceful protest.