Columbia battles radical activists, limits entry to former Israeli leader’s visit as Trump weighs pulling $5B

More than 100 protesters gathered outside a Columbia University building on Tuesday evening to demonstrate against an event featuring former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. The event, which was organized by Columbia/Barnard Hillel, the School of International and Public Affairs’ Institute of Global Politics, and the Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, drew both support and opposition from the university community. Brian Cohen, a spokesperson for the Kraft Center, emphasized the importance of the discussion, stating that it aligns with the institution’s mission to promote intellectual exploration and growth. However, due to the tense campus environment, the event was restricted to invited students only.

The protest was co-organized by Columbia Jewish Voice for Peace (Columbia JVP) and the Columbia Palestine Solidarity Coalition, reflecting the deep divisions on campus regarding Israeli-Palestinian relations. Since the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023, anti-Israel demonstrations have become commonplace on college campuses across the United States. Protesters view Bennett as a symbol of policies they oppose, with Columbia JVP labeling him a “war criminal” and vowing to ensure such figures are not welcomed on campus. The group also criticized the event’s organizers for keeping Bennett’s identity confidential and restricting attendance, which they claimed undermined the university’s commitment to open dialogue.

Columbia University administration stated that it worked closely with organizers and public safety officials to ensure the event proceeded smoothly. While protesters were present outside the venue, they were managed by the NYPD, and the university emphasized that the event itself was not disrupted. The institution also noted that some protesters were from outside the Columbia community. Despite the tensions, the university highlighted its commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment, enforcing policies to prevent discrimination and ensure compliance with campus rules.

The event and subsequent protest have sparked broader debates about free speech, academic freedom, and the role of universities in fostering dialogue on contentious issues. Columbia University Jews for Ceasefire criticized the decision to limit attendance, arguing that it deprived most students of the opportunity to engage in critical discourse with a former world leader. They accused the organizers of contradicting their own calls for an open campus culture. Meanwhile, supporters of the event defended it as an important intellectual exercise, with Cohen expressing hope that future events could be opened to a broader audience.

The controversy has also drawn federal attention. Multiple U.S. government agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Education (ED), and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), announced a review of Columbia’s federal contracts and grants. This action follows concerns over alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin. The Federal Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism is considering halting $51.4 million in contracts and reviewing over $5 billion in federal grants to the university. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. condemned what he described as rising anti-Semitism on campuses, linking it to a broader decline in open debate and mutual respect.

The backdrop to this conflict is the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which has caused immense human suffering. A recent ceasefire has led to the release of some hostages, but the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with tens of thousands of casualties and widespread displacement. The conflict has polarized communities, including those on college campuses, where debates over Israel-Palestine relations often become flashpoints for activism and controversy. The situation at Columbia reflects the broader challenges universities face in balancing free speech, inclusivity, and academic freedom amid deeply divisive global conflicts.