Columbia University has barred a student protest leader for stating in a video that “Zionists don’t deserve to live,” according to a spokesperson from the university as reported by Fox News.
The student, Khymani James, a junior at the university and a leader of the anti-Israel movement, issued an apology on Twitter for his remarks, admitting that he had “misspoke in the heat of the moment.”
The controversy over James’ comments arose during a live stream discussion with Columbia’s Center for Student Success and Intervention, where he defended his statement that he felt “very comfortable calling for those people to die.” He later added that Zionists should not live in this world, drawing criticism and condemnation.
The anti-Israel encampment at Columbia University stirred up tensions on campus, leading to suspensions and arrests of several students. Despite efforts by the university to remove the encampment with the help of the NYPD, it has returned, prompting negotiations between school administrators and the protesters involved.
Similar anti-Israel protests have erupted at other universities such as Northwestern University, the University of Southern California, Yale University, and George Washington University, resulting in arrests and crackdowns by law enforcement.
Overall, the situation at Columbia University highlights the ongoing debate and tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on college campuses across the United States.
