President Joe Biden acknowledged anti-Israel student protests while speaking at Morehouse College’s commencement but faced some protests of his own during the speech.
The war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas has ignited heated debates on various college campuses, with protests intensifying at the end of last month. Biden has condemned the violent protests at Columbia University and the University of California, Los Angeles, but also took time to acknowledge the protesters during his address at the Morehouse College graduation ceremony on Sunday.
“I want to say this very clearly. I support peaceful nonviolent protest. Your voices should be heard. I promise you, I hear them,” Biden stated.
Biden then discussed the war in Gaza, stressing his call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages still held by Hamas. Before Biden spoke, the student speaker at the ceremony also demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
“That’s why I’ve called for an immediate ceasefire — an immediate ceasefire. Stop the fighting, bring the hostages home,” Biden emphasized, also advocating for a “lasting, durable peace.”
During the speech at the historically black college, several graduates turned their backs on Biden in a silent protest. Another student held up a Palestinian flag during his remarks.
Despite concerns over possible disruptions, Biden managed to deliver his speech without any audible protest.
Recently, Biden’s administration has been at odds with Israel regarding its handling of the conflict, particularly opposing the Israel Defense Force’s planned major operation in Rafah, the final Hamas stronghold.
