Incident Overview

Columbia University has suspended one student after speeding up its investigation into a disruption in an Israeli history class. The disruption occurred during a History of Modern Israel class when demonstrators entered and handed out flyers with “violent imagery.”

According to the university, one flyer displayed a burning Israeli flag with the words “Burn Zionism to the Ground.” Another showed a boot about to stomp on the Jewish Star of David, accompanied by the phrase “Crush Zionism.” The demonstrators, whose faces were covered and appeared to wear keffiyehs, handed the materials to students during Professor Avi Shilon’s first lecture.

Columbia identified one student involved and placed them on suspension pending a full review. The university’s investigation continues, but officials have not disclosed the student’s identity.

Responses and Reactions

Student Elisha Baker, a junior studying Middle Eastern history, described the incident as shocking. “I’m still super excited for this class, but it’s upsetting this happened on the first day,” Baker said. The protesters stayed in the classroom for about five minutes before leaving. Campus security arrived shortly after and collected reports, photos, and videos from students.

Columbia had earlier announced increased efforts to identify those responsible and adjusted its campus security measures. Interim President Katrina Armstrong condemned the disruption, emphasizing that no student group has the right to interfere with academic sessions. She stated, “Acts of antisemitism, discrimination, harassment, or intimidation will not be tolerated.”

Background on Campus Tensions

Tuesday’s disruption follows years of heightened tensions at Columbia related to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Protests, building occupations, and an encampment on school grounds have previously disrupted academic life. Last year, several students reported experiencing harassment, intimidation, and even physical assaults during similar incidents.

Columbia’s campus experienced significant upheaval in the past year. Following a protest that led to the arrests of over 100 demonstrators, the university president resigned, and three deans were dismissed after antisemitic messages surfaced. In another incident, Columbia banned a pro-Palestinian student activist for stating, “Zionists don’t deserve to live” in a video. Despite initial apologies from a student coalition, the group later withdrew its statement and advocated for armed resistance against Israel.

The university reiterated its stance against violence and discrimination, stressing its commitment to fostering a safe and respectful academic environment for all students.