Amidst the ongoing Israeli military assault on Gaza, student protests have erupted in various countries in response to the conflict.
Here’s a breakdown of the main campaigns:
– United States –
Students have been staging protests at over 40 university campuses across the United States since April 17, setting up tent camps to raise awareness about the escalating death toll in Gaza. The demonstrations, reminiscent of anti-Vietnam War protests, have resulted in nearly 2,000 detentions.
In recent days, law enforcement has dismantled several student sit-ins, including ones at New York University and Columbia University, where protesters alleged police brutality during clearances.
– France –
In Paris, police forcibly removed protesters from a pro-Gaza sit-in at Sciences Po, leading to 91 arrests. Meanwhile, at Sorbonne University, a “dialogue table” was set up by the Union of Jewish Students in France to foster discussions about the conflict.
– Germany –
In Berlin, police intervened to disperse demonstrators outside Humboldt University, following which the city’s mayor criticized the protest, emphasizing the avoidance of disruptive events.
– Canada –
Student protests against the Gaza conflict have also taken place in cities like Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver. At McGill University in Montreal, protesters have vowed to continue their camp until ties with Israel are severed.
– Australia –
At Sydney University, rival supporters of Gaza and Israel held demonstrations, while pro-ceasefire activists camped for 10 days, urging the university to cut ties with Israeli institutions.
– Ireland –
Trinity College Dublin saw students launching a solidarity encampment with Palestine through a sit-in protest.
– Mexico –
Students from UNAM in Mexico City set up a camp demanding the government to sever ties with Israel in support of Palestine.
– Switzerland –
At Lausanne University, students are occupying a building’s entrance, advocating for an academic boycott of Israel and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
These student-led movements reflect a global surge of solidarity with Gaza, urging governments and institutions to take actions in support of Palestine.