Vanderbilt University suspends students, arrests four in protest over Israel divestment

The protests, ignited by the removal of an anti-Israel amendment from a student ballot, escalated with physical altercations and a sit-in at an administration building.

Four students were arrested and more than a dozen were suspended following a protest at Vanderbilt University, which began over the removal of an anti-Israel amendment from a student ballot.
The protest escalated into a sit-in at an administration building, leading to physical altercations with staff and the arrest of a local reporter, although charges were later dismissed.
Critics mock a segment of the protesters for calling 911 over a 'toxic shock' tampon panic, while the university emphasizes its commitment to free expression and civil discourse.
Vanderbilt University cites safety concerns and policy violations as reasons for the suspensions and arrests, while protesters claim they were exercising their free speech rights.
The incident has sparked debate over the university's handling of protests and the broader implications for free speech and civil discourse on campus.