National Security Council spokesman John Kirby affirmed the government’s support for peaceful protests but strongly condemned anti-Semitic language and threats of violence. The wave of demonstrations, originating at Columbia University, has since expanded nationwide. While most protests have remained peaceful, the number of arrests has surged, involving police using riot gear and chemical irritants. Arrests include Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein, who criticized police tactics for provoking unrest. College administrators are grappling with the balance between upholding free speech and containing inflammatory and anti-Semitic rhetoric. The University of Southern California closed its main campus after pro-Palestinian groups reestablished an encampment, and some universities have shifted to online classes with final exams approaching. Protesters demand a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict and severed ties between colleges and Israel. Israel’s military operation in Gaza has resulted in thousands of casualties, primarily women and children, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry.
US Condemns Anti-Semitism, Violence Amid Campus Protests Over Gaza Conflict
