Columbia University in New York City has initiated disciplinary actions against students involved in a pro-Palestinian protest on campus after they disregarded a deadline to disband their two-week encampment. The university warned of consequences for those who didn't comply by Monday afternoon but, as the deadline passed, protesters persisted, leading to the suspension of some students.

Similar situations unfolded at the University of Texas at Austin, where police arrested protesters who refused to dismantle their camp, citing safety concerns due to the presence of rocks. In both cases, authorities cited safety and compliance issues as reasons for their actions.

These protests reflect a broader national debate over the conflict in Gaza and U.S. support for Israel, with concerns raised about antisemitism on campuses and the safety of Jewish students. Calls for university leaders to take decisive action have intensified, with some lawmakers urging resignations if steps aren't taken to ensure student safety and restore order.

Despite efforts by academic leaders to engage in dialogue with protest organizers, agreements couldn't be reached, leading to disciplinary measures being implemented. Some protesters remain defiant, vowing to protect their encampments, while universities take steps to maintain order and prevent disruptions, particularly with graduation ceremonies approaching.

The protests at Columbia have sparked similar demonstrations at campuses across the country, with tensions running high and instances of clashes reported. Students are calling for divestment from entities supporting Israel, while Jewish students express concerns about their safety amid alleged incidents of hate speech and harassment.

As universities grapple with these challenges, the White House emphasizes the importance of balancing free expression with condemnation of hateful speech, acknowledging the complexities of the situation and the need to uphold the law.