Columbia University Suspends Many Students Following Pro-Palestinian Protest in Library

May 10, 2025

Columbia University in Manhattan has suspended dozens of students and barred alumni and others involved in a pro-Palestinian demonstration in the school's main library. The Ivy League institution took action against more than 65 students and prohibited 33 others from campus, including affiliates like Barnard College. Interim suspension means students cannot come to campus, attend classes, or engage in university activities. The length of the suspension is unknown, pending further investigation. The protest, which led to around 80 arrests, involved masked demonstrators entering the Butler Library, hanging Palestinian flags, and defacing library furniture. New York City police intervened at the university's request, dispersing the protesters. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a review of the visa status of participants for potential deportation. The Trump administration has halted federal funding and detained international students at Columbia and other prestigious American universities due to their involvement in protests against the Gaza conflict.

Tags: Columbia university, Pro-palestinian protest, Students suspended, New york city, Library demonstration, Police intervention, Marco rubio, Student protests, Deportation, Federal funding,