Columbia University has issued a strong warning to students planning anti-Israel protests, emphasizing that any unauthorized encampments on campus will be dismantled, and participants could face arrest. The university revealed it had uncovered clandestine plans to replicate last year’s protests, which escalated into students occupying Hamilton Hall and clashing with police in riot gear. Over 200 individuals were arrested during the unrest, which erupted in response to Israel’s military actions in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that killed more than 1,200 people.
In a public safety alert, Columbia stated, “We have been made aware of possible plans to establish encampments on Columbia’s campuses. We want to clearly communicate that camping and encampments on Columbia’s campuses are prohibited by university policy.” The university warned that authorities would swiftly remove tents or structures and disperse demonstrators. “Individuals who refuse to disperse will be identified and sanctions, including potential removal from campus and possible arrest, may be applied.”
While affirming its commitment to free expression and the right to protest, Columbia underscored that such activities must adhere to university policies to ensure safety and the uninterrupted continuation of academic and campus operations.
The warning follows last year’s protests, which began over 12 months ago and led to widespread chaos and disorder. The Ivy League institution was forced to cancel its main graduation ceremony due to safety concerns amid ongoing demonstrations and a surge in antisemitism on campus. Former Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigned after facing intense criticism for her handling of the protests, many of which devolved into violent clashes with police.
The university’s announcement comes amid reports that over 100 individuals gathered in Brooklyn earlier this week to strategize reigniting on-campus protests. Documents obtained by NBC News reveal organizers instructing participants to prepare for extended jail time and provide emergency contacts access to their residences. Organizers cited the Trump administration’s efforts to revoke federal funding from Columbia and the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian green card holder accused of being a ringleader in last year’s protests, as motivations for this year’s actions.
Columbia has faced heightened scrutiny over the rise in antisemitism, prompting former President Trump to cancel $400 million in federal grants to the university in March. In response, Columbia implemented several reforms, including banning masks for identity concealment, granting expanded arrest powers to 36 campus police officers, and appointing a senior vice provost to oversee Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies, as well as the Center for Palestine Studies.
Sources familiar with the negotiations clarified that these reforms do not guarantee the restoration of federal funding but are prerequisites for reopening discussions. Education Secretary Linda McMahon acknowledged the changes positively, though the funds remain un-reinstated.
Fox News’ Louis Casiano and Alexis McAdams contributed to this report.
Sources: [Fox News](https://www.foxnews.com), [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com)