Columbia University Faces Congressional Scrutiny Amid Campus Tensions Over Israel-Gaza Conflict

As Columbia's president prepares for a House hearing, the university grapples with protests and disciplinary actions, reflecting broader national debates on academic freedom and antisemitism.

Columbia University's handling of Israel-Gaza conflict protests sparks controversy, with recent student suspensions and disciplinary actions ahead of a congressional hearing.
President Minouche Shafik to testify before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, facing scrutiny over the university's response to antisemitism and freedom of speech issues.
Tensions remain high on campus as students express fear and division, with incidents of harassment and protests affecting Jewish and Palestinian students alike.
Legal actions and investigations underway at Columbia, including a lawsuit challenging the suspension of pro-Palestinian student groups and a separate inquiry into a noxious chemical spray incident.
National context shows other universities also taking strict measures against pro-Palestine advocacy, reflecting a broader clampdown on campus activism.