Los Angeles, California – US President Joe Biden has weighed in on the recent wave of student unrest and protests on college campuses nationwide, urging pro-Palestinian demonstrators to uphold the rule of law.
During a press briefing at the White House, Biden emphasized the importance of maintaining civil order, stating, “We are a civil society, and order must prevail.” His remarks come in response to over 2,000 arrests made at college rallies and protest camps in the past two weeks, including 209 arrests at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
On the UCLA campus, authorities in riot gear dispersed a pro-Palestinian camp, leading to clashes with demonstrators. The university declared the camp “unlawful and a breach of policy,” citing safety concerns and disruptions to the academic mission. Similar protests have spread to nearly 140 colleges in 45 US states and six other countries, calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict and divestment from Israeli-linked companies.
As tensions escalate, reports of violence and antisemitic harassment against Jewish students have emerged. At UCLA, a masked pro-Israeli group attacked campers, prompting a slow police response and criticism from students and political leaders. In response, law enforcement created strict security measures to restore order.
Despite claims of peaceful protest by some demonstrators, authorities apprehended individuals at several universities, including Yale, Dartmouth, and the University of Wisconsin. The unrest has prompted colleges to shift to online instruction temporarily, with some institutions negotiating divestment agreements with protesters.
Biden reiterated the right to protest while condemning chaos and violence, emphasizing the need for a safe academic environment. The Uncommitted National Movement, a group of Arab-American voters critical of Biden, accused him of failing to address the concerns of young people and uncommitted voters.
The situation remains fluid as campuses across the country navigate complex societal and political tensions amid calls for peace and accountability.