Columbia University on Lockdown After Anti-Israel Protesters Takeover

The administration at Columbia University has closed campus indefinitely due to a violent takeover by an anti-Israel mob. In a statement released hours after protesters stormed Hamilton Hall and barricaded themselves inside, the university stated that it would remain shut until circumstances permit otherwise. Access is currently limited only to students residing on campus and essential staff members who provide services such as dining, public safety, and building maintenance for residential student life. This restriction will continue in place until further notice. The school emphasized that the safety of its community was paramount and thanked individuals for their cooperation during this crisis. In addition, there is now only one access point onto campus at 116th Street and Amsterdam Gate; all other entry points are closed with security personnel stationed at Wien Hall’s gate to accommodate those requiring disability access to East Campus. The escalation began early Tuesday morning when a group of protesters occupied Hamilton Hall, barricading themselves inside by moving metal gates, blocking entrances using tables and chairs, and securing doors shut through the use of zip-ties. Video footage showed students in New York breaking windows while chanting slogans such as “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” and “Palestine will live forever.” Outside Hamilton Hall, protesters formed a human barricade by linking their arms until their three demands—the withdrawal of Columbia’s support for Israel via divestment, greater transparency regarding investments, and blanket amnesty for protestors facing consequences as a result of these actions — were met.