Administrators at leading American universities such as New York University, Yale, and Columbia faced challenges in calming campuses amidst the Gaza conflict. Protesters demanded reduced financial ties to Israel and its arms suppliers, leading to concerns of antisemitism and safety among Jewish students. Faculty criticized restrictions on peaceful protests, jeopardizing academia's commitment to open debate. Alumni and donors expressed anger, while calls for Columbia's president's resignation emerged from Congress. The situation raised tensions and highlighted the complexities of balancing academic freedom and political sensitivities.
