The campus of Columbia University in New York was the scene of a muscular intervention by riot police on Tuesday evening, putting an end to the occupation led by pro-Palestinian demonstrators. This evacuation, requested by the president of the university, marked a turning point in the mobilization movement which has shaken American campuses in recent weeks.
The scene, worthy of the greatest moments of political tension, saw dozens or even hundreds of police officers invest the Columbia campus in riot uniforms. They managed to dislodge the demonstrators who had occupied a building since the previous night. Images of the intervention quickly went around the world, highlighting the strong anger and demands of pro-Palestinian students.
The evacuation of the Columbia campus reflects a nationwide phenomenon, where American youth have mobilized against Israel’s war in Gaza. The protesters, through their arrest and placement in police vehicles, expressed their commitment to the Palestinian cause, proclaiming “Free Palestine” outside the campus.
The president of the university, Minouche Shafik, justified her call for police intervention by the violent events and the escalation of tensions on campus. She asked that law enforcement maintain a presence until the graduation ceremony scheduled for May. This decision sparked divergent reactions within the political world, highlighting the polarization of American society on international issues.
The occupation of the Columbia campus and the resulting political reactions illustrate the complex issues linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While some denounce anti-Semitism and call for an end to demonstrations deemed violent, others support the right of students to express solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The pro-Palestinian student movement is not limited to Columbia. Universities across the country have been the scene of similar protests and occupations, reminiscent of the historic mobilizations of the 1960s. Dialogue between students, university authorities and law enforcement remains tense, reflecting tensions and tensions. deep divisions that drive American society.
Ultimately, the evacuation of the Columbia campus highlights the challenges facing America’s youth amid political polarization and international conflict. The protests, police interventions and political reactions raise fundamental questions about freedom of expression, international solidarity and the role of academic institutions in a world gripped by multiple crises.