Antisemitism has no place in Columbia University, says President

Columbia University president Nemat Shafik refuted the claims that she allowed the university to become a place of hatred and also denounced antisemitism on campus.

In the wake of the Israel - Hamas war, Columbia University is witnessing an antisemitism row. The university president, Minouche Shafik, has urged for a campus “free of discrimination and harassment” during the Congressional hearing on Wednesday.

She appeared before the committee four months after the contentious congressional hearing that led to the resignation of two Ivy League presidents. She was called before the committee to address questions that are being raised on antisemitism and the school's response to conflicts on campus over the Iran and Israel conflict.

"We condemn the antisemitism that is so pervasive today," she said, as reported by TOI.

"Antisemitism has no place on our campus and I am personally committed to doing everything I can to confront it directly," she added.

President acknowledges rise in Antisemitism

She acknowledged that there has been a rise in antisemitism on the campus but she added that the vast majority of demonstrations have been peaceful.

Minouche Shafik said that the university brought in extra security experts and had regular contact with the NYPD and the FBI. She added that till date she had held more than 200 meetings with groups of donors, parents, alumni, faculty and students, and 20 meetings with other university presidents to understand the situation and learn from each other.

15 students suspended

She said in front of the committee that the university already suspended 15 students and six more are on disciplinary probation.

Israel - Hamas war latest updates

On April 13, the Palestinian group Hamas attacked southern Israel and killed more than 1,000 people. After this, Israelis attacked Gaza and killed more than 33,800 Palestinians. US citizens have protested against the attack on Gaza and sought a ceasefire. Like other parts of the country, the university also saw both the group one who supports the war and another who is against the war.

While the tension along the border continues, both Hezbollah and Israel have claimed cross-border attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declined the claims by international organisations that areas in Gaza are facing famine after six months of war.

Read more:

• UC Merced, Las Positas College alliance to enhance educational pathways
• Japan Offers Scholarships To Indian Students; Details Here