‘We Had to Make a Difficult Decision’

Columbia University responded to reports of an NYPD raid on campus by issuing a statement. The university stated that the NYPD arrived on campus at their request to restore safety and order. The raid followed anti-Israel protests seizing control of Hamilton Hall, with protesters smashing glass doors, bringing barricades inside, and hanging pro-Palestinian banners from windows. In response, Columbia University announced restrictions on campus access for the remainder of the spring semester. The university condemned the protesters’ actions and clarified that they were left with no choice but to request police intervention for the safety of the community. NYPD officers were seen removing protesters and making arrests. Prior to the raid, Columbia University had given protesters a deadline to leave the encampment, which was defied.