The New York Police Department (NYPD) is investigating the possibility of external actors instigating recent pro-Palestinian protests at New York University (NYU) and Columbia University. The demonstrations have involved encampments and clashes with police, with hundreds of arrests made. NYPD officials believe that professional agitators may be involved and are exploring the potential for funding behind the protests. Despite incidents of aggression, student organizers have denounced violence and condemned the involvement of non-students.