New York, NY – Columbia University’s commencement ceremony on Wednesday was marred by pro-Palestinian protests, reigniting campus tensions over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and resulting in a heightened police presence and at least one arrest.
Outside the gates of the Upper Manhattan campus, demonstrators gathered chanting slogans such as “Columbia, you’re a liar, you set Palestine on fire” and “intifada revolution,” with many wearing keffiyehs to conceal their identities. According to The Times of Israel, at least one protester was detained.
Inside the ceremony, some students interrupted Acting President Claire Shipman’s address by shouting “Free Palestine!” Others took more dramatic action by burning their diplomas in protest, denouncing what they described as Columbia’s complicity in Israel’s military campaign against Hamas.
The protest echoed last year’s disruptions, which forced the university to cancel its graduation amid prolonged student encampments. This year’s ceremony drew approximately 12,000 graduates and an estimated 25,000 attendees.
Calls for Mahmoud Khalil’s Release
Tensions were further inflamed by calls for the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a former graduate student and prominent member of Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD). Khalil was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in March and faces deportation under orders issued during the Trump administration for alleged ties to Hamas — allegations he denies.
University Response
In her remarks, Acting President Shipman acknowledged the emotionally charged atmosphere and defended the rights of international students.
“We firmly believe that our international students have the same right to freedom of speech as everyone else, and they should not be targeted by the government for exercising that right,” she said. Addressing Khalil’s absence, she added, “I know many in our community today are mourning the absence of our graduate, Mahmoud Khalil.”
The university has not commented further on the arrest or Khalil’s immigration case.
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