Amid growing student protests over Israel’s war with Hamas, police have clashed with demonstrators in Texas and California, while new encampments have emerged at Harvard and other colleges. At the University of Texas at Austin, dozens of police officers and state troopers prevented students from marching through campus, resulting in clashes and arrests. Similarly, at the University of Southern California, police removed tents and engaged in a tug-of-war with protesters before withdrawing. In an attempt to avoid confrontations, Harvard University restricted access to Harvard Yard and required permits for tents and tables. However, this did not deter protesters from setting up a camp with 14 tents following a rally against the university’s suspension of the Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee. Columbia University averted a clash between students and police earlier in the day, extending negotiations for another 48 hours after setting a midnight deadline for protesters to clear an encampment. Student protesters committed to removing a substantial number of tents, according to a statement from the university. In Austin, protesters planned a walkout and march to the main campus lawn, intending to occupy the space and host events. However, the university issued a statement declaring it would not tolerate disruptions like those seen on other campuses. Texas police and public safety officials have not yet confirmed the number of arrests made. Columbia University’s initial attempt to clear the encampment last week resulted in over 100 arrests, but the move inspired similar protests and regrouping at Columbia. As of Wednesday, about 60 tents remained at the Columbia encampment, which appeared peaceful with students coming and going. Security remained strict, with identification checks and metal barricades set up by police. Students protesting against Israel’s actions demand an end to support for Israel and divestment from companies involved in the conflict. Dozens have been arrested for trespassing or disorderly conduct. Some Jewish students have raised concerns about antisemitism and fear attending classes due to the protests. Columbia University agreed with protest representatives to limit the encampment to students who would maintain a welcoming atmosphere, banning discriminatory or harassing language. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the pro-Palestinian demonstrations, calling for intervention by state, local, and federal officials. Students at some protests concealed their identities by wearing masks. At the University of Michigan’s campus in Ann Arbor, almost every student at an encampment of about 40 tents wore masks, which were distributed upon entry. Protesters declined to identify themselves, citing fears of university retribution. Organizers revealed that previous protesters at Michigan had faced doxing and punishment. Amid the rise in demonstrations, universities face the challenge of balancing free speech rights with safety concerns. New York University reported 133 arrests during protests, with all individuals released with summonses for disorderly conduct. Over 40 protesters were arrested at an encampment at Yale University on Monday. Balancing free speech and safety is a difficult task for university leaders, who must ensure that individuals can express their views while also protecting students from threats and intimidation, according to Ben Wizner of the American Civil Liberties Union.
Student Protests Spread, Clashing with Police on Campuses Across the U.S.
