Overview

• Protests at U.S. universities including UC Berkeley, Columbia, and others are intensifying amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, with demands ranging from divestment from Israel to better protections for protesting students.
• UC Berkeley maintains a non-violent stance despite tensions, reflecting lessons from past protests, while other universities have seen arrests and police interventions.
• At Columbia University, over 100 pro-Palestinian students were arrested, sparking further demonstrations and criticism of the university's approach to handling protests.
• Incidents of antisemitism and anti-Muslim sentiments are reported, complicating the campus climates and raising concerns about student safety and freedom of expression.
• The national response includes a mix of peaceful demonstrations and violent clashes, with law enforcement tactics under scrutiny as universities struggle to balance free speech and safety.