Protesters at an anti-Israel demonstration at New York University (NYU) engaged in violent confrontations with NYPD officers. The incident occurred on Monday evening as officers moved into Gould Plaza to disperse the crowd. According to Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry, some protesters threw bottles at officers and one individual struck an officer’s helmet with a chair. The NYPD is investigating the assault and has stated that the responsible party will face arrest.
A total of 120 individuals were taken into custody for trespassing and other charges, including resisting arrest. Faculty members were reported to be among the most aggressive participants in the protest.
The protest was organized by the NYU chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), which has been critical of the university’s support for Israel. The group has previously held protests and staged sit-ins on campus to demand the university divest from companies that do business with Israel.
The NYPD has been criticized for its handling of the protest, with some accusing officers of using excessive force. However, the NYPD has defended its actions, stating that officers were forced to use physical force to disperse the crowd and prevent further violence.
The incident has sparked a debate about the role of free speech and protest on college campuses. Some have argued that the protesters had the right to voice their opinions, while others have condemned the violence and disruption that occurred. The university has not yet commented on the incident.
