Columbia University has issued disciplinary actions against more than 70 students involved in an anti-Israel protest that included a campus encampment and the unauthorised takeover of Butler Library. Approximately 80% of those students have received penalties such as suspension, expulsion, or revocation of degrees. Most suspensions are for a duration of two years.
The university’s actions stem from a May 7 incident in which anti-Israel demonstrators forcibly entered Butler Library, causing property damage and injuring at least two public safety officers. The protest was part of a broader campaign opposing Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which followed the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led terrorist attacks on Israeli civilians.
University officials stated that the most severe sanctions were given to individuals who were repeatedly instructed to leave the library and refused. While individual disciplinary details were not disclosed, the university confirmed that outcomes included probation, suspensions ranging from one to three years, expulsion, and the revocation of degrees.
In an official statement, the university emphasised its commitment to academic integrity and campus safety, noting that disruptions to university operations violate institutional policies and would be met with appropriate consequences. The administration also highlighted improvements in the disciplinary process, citing a more efficient and equitable system for resolving such cases.
The anti-Israel protests on campus had previously drawn attention amid reports of Jewish students feeling unsafe. In April, a campus rabbi advised Jewish students to leave campus due to the tense atmosphere. That same month, demonstrators occupied Hamilton Hall, damaging property and barricading entrances.
The situation escalated again on May 7, when dozens of protesters stormed Butler Library. Roughly 80 individuals were detained after the university requested assistance from the New York Police Department. According to university leadership, the action was necessary to address safety concerns.
Social media footage from the protest showed demonstrators wearing keffiyehs, chanting, pounding drums, and spray-painting messages such as “Learn From Palestine” on library property.
