Protests against Israel have erupted at many top universities recently. Here are the key points:
- Over 22 elite schools saw anti-Israel rallies in the past week
- Students held protests at Columbia, NYU, and other prestigious campuses
- Police arrested over 150 protesters at Columbia University alone
Why is this happening? Some say the demonstrations promote terrorism and anti-Semitism. However, President Biden gave a “both sides” response when asked about them. Let’s take a closer look.
Biden’s Controversial “Both Sides” Statement
When questioned if he condemns the campus protests, Biden said:
“I condemn those who don’t understand what’s going on with the Palestinians.”
This echoes his criticism of Trump’s “both sides” remarks after the Charlottesville white supremacist rally in 2017. Biden had said then that failing to denounce hate is unacceptable for a president.
Organized Efforts Fueling the Protests?
Authorities suspect the widespread demonstrations are being funded and organized by outside groups:
- Protesters use identical tents and chant scripted slogans like “We are all Hamas”
- Many ralliers appear to be non-students who infiltrated the campus
- The matching tactics across schools suggest a coordinated campaign
A Columbia student said unknown “insurgents” have occupied the protest camp, making it unsafe even for demonstrators.
Fears of Rising Anti-Semitism
The disturbing displays have provoked fears of growing anti-Jewish hatred, drawing condemnation:
- A Holocaust survivor called the protests “painful” and “scary”
- Critics argue the rallies promote the same ideologies behind past genocides
- There are concerns the demonstrations dehumanize and endanger Jewish students
With memories of historical atrocities, many are troubled to see college youth adopting such extreme anti-Israel views.
Where will this lead? Biden’s mixed stance has raised questions about his core values regarding democracy and human rights. The nation watches as these campus protests intensify nationwide.