Israel-Hamas war: Pro-Palestine protest kicked off at Unversity of Auckland

University of Auckland: Similar to the pro-Palestine protest happening in the US universities, the University of Auckland in New Zealand also witnessed protestors pitching tents on the campus.

Study in New Zealand: The University of Auckland confirmed that a pro-Palestine protest, in line with the protests happening in the US universities, started at the university. The police is monitoring the situation as students have pitched tents on the campus. The rally is expected to end by 9 and 10 pm tonight and the tents will be removed.

The university’s vice-chancellor Dawn Freshwater said that the staff and students taking part in the protest should remain civil and respectful. “Having carefully considered the matter and taken into account advice from the police, the decision has been made to work constructively with the students to facilitate a peaceful and lawful protest on campus, but to not support the establishment of an overnight encampment,” she said, as reported by New Zealand Herald.

She added that the university did not support protesters camping overnight.

Student Union invited protestors through Facebook post

The University of Auckland Student Justice for Palestine invited students through Facebook page to gather with their tents outside the university library from 3 pm on Wednesday. 

“It’s time to pitch your tents, set up your chairs, and lay out your mats for a day filled with solidarity on campus! Join us as we come together to celebrate unity and support From thought-provoking speakers to interactive activities, we’ve got it all planned out to foster a sense of togetherness like never before! Calling all campus clubs and organisations: this is your moment to shine! If you’re eager to share your message of solidarity, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our execs. Let’s make tomorrow’s rally an unforgettable display of strength, support, and solidarity. See you there!,” reads the Facebook statement.

Police in touch with Pro-Palestine protesters at Unversity of Auckland

"Our staff have had ongoing contact with protest organisers and the university around their plans and we will have police staff in the area and will be monitoring the situation," police said in a statement, as reported by News Hub.

"Police recognise the right to peaceful protest, but we also recognise that the wider public also has a right to go about their lawful business. As with any protest, our role is to uphold the law. We will continue to approach these events appropriate to the circumstances, including engagement and monitoring. Our staff will continue to respond to any unlawful behaviour or situations where peoples' safety is at risk. We have ensured our expectations on behaviour have been made clear,” added police.

Read more:

• UCLA: Jewish girl sent to Emergency Room after reportedly beaten by pro-Palestine pro-testers
• Columbia University Pro-Palestine Protest Continues; President asks police to remain on campus until May 17