In recent months, protests against the war in Gaza have swept through American universities, with over 60 campuses experiencing demonstrations and occupations since mid-April. Over 2 thousand people have been arrested in connection with these protests. Images of police in riot gear clearing out Columbia and UCLA have circulated around the world, leading to the spread of the protest to universities in Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East.
In Australia, pro-Palestine protests have been taking place at several universities in recent weeks. Tensions arose at the University of Queensland in Brisbane between students who were solidarity with Palestinians and those with Israeli flags. The group Students for Palestine UQ is calling on university leaders to cut ties with Israeli companies, particularly those in the arms industry. Similar protests have taken place at other campuses in Australia, including the University of Sydney.
In France, students at Sciences Po and Sorbonne universities expressed solidarity with Palestinian people while facing criticism for alleged anti-Semitic and anti-Israel activities. Dialogue is urged by both sides to address concerns and tensions on campus.
Protests at Canadian universities like McGill University, University of Toronto, and University of British Columbia demand an end to ties with Israeli companies. Attempts by police to disperse protesters have been met with legal challenges as demonstrated by a Quebec superior court judge’s rejection of an injunction at McGill University. These protests have inspired similar demonstrations in Lebanon where students at American University of Beirut demanded a boycott of companies doing business with Israel.