NYPD arrested 76 pro-Palestinian protesters after they barricaded themselves inside Columbia University’s Butler Library, vandalizing property and causing injuries to public safety officers in a chaotic demonstration that forced the university into lockdown.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 76 pro-Palestinian demonstrators were forcibly removed from Columbia University’s Butler Library by NYPD after refusing to disperse
- Two university public safety officers were injured during the protest when protesters attempted to force their way into the building
- Protesters vandalized property inside the library during a critical pre-final exams reading week, disrupting academic activities
- Columbia University implemented restricted campus access following the incident, requiring university IDs for entry
- The protest escalated when a large crowd attempted to push into the library, triggering a fire alarm and forcing a security lockdown
Anti-Israel Protesters Take Over Columbia Library
The chaos erupted at approximately 3:15 p.m. when pro-Palestinian protesters occupied Reading Room 301 of Butler Library during a crucial pre-finals reading week. The demonstrators barricaded themselves inside, refusing to identify themselves or leave when confronted by university officials. The situation quickly deteriorated as protesters refused to comply with public safety officers’ requests to show identification and vacate the premises, despite clear warnings that continued refusal would result in police intervention and potential arrests.
“Due to the number of individuals participating in the disruption inside and outside of the building, a large group of people attempting to force their way into Butler Library creating a safety hazard, and what we believe to be the significant presence of individuals not affiliated with the University, Columbia has taken the necessary step of requesting the presence of NYPD to assist in securing the building and the safety of our community,” said Columbia University Acting President Claire Shipman.
NYPD Intervention and Arrests
The situation escalated dramatically when a fire alarm was activated and a large crowd gathered outside attempting to push their way into the library. This surge resulted in injuries to two public safety officers, prompting Columbia officials to request NYPD assistance. Police officers swiftly moved in, removing approximately 76 protesters, many of whom were led out in flex cuffs. While the protest appeared peaceful from outside observers, with demonstrators sitting, taking photos, and holding signs, the university cited vandalism and property damage as additional concerns that necessitated police intervention.
“In a statement, NYC Mayor Eric Adams said the NYPD was asked by Columbia to remove trespassers.”
Government Officials Respond to Campus Chaos
State and city officials quickly weighed in on the escalating situation at Columbia. While acknowledging the right to peaceful protest, both Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams drew a clear line against violence and disruption. Adams, who has repeatedly taken a firm stance against lawlessness in the city, emphasized that while New York will defend peaceful protest, there would be no tolerance for disruptive or dangerous demonstrations. The governor echoed these sentiments, highlighting that safety must remain paramount on college campuses.
“Everyone has the right to peacefully protest. But violence, vandalism or destruction of property are completely unacceptable,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Following the incident, Columbia University announced restricted campus access, requiring university IDs for entry the following day. This latest disruption is part of a pattern of pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia that have repeatedly forced the administration to take extraordinary security measures. The university has faced mounting criticism for its handling of these incidents, with some arguing that its response has been inadequate while others claim overreach in restricting protest activities.
Ongoing Campus Tensions
This incident represents the latest chapter in Columbia’s ongoing struggle with pro-Palestinian demonstrations since the Israel-Hamas conflict began. Previous protests have resulted in arrests, disciplinary actions, and national attention as the university attempts to balance free speech with campus safety and academic functioning. The disruption of academic activities during a critical study period has particularly angered many students who feel their education is being compromised by politically motivated demonstrations.
“As I’ve said repeatedly, New York City will always defend the right to peaceful protest, but we will never tolerate lawlessness,” said Mayor Eric Adams.
The presence of non-student protesters further complicates the situation, suggesting external influences in what many had assumed were student-led demonstrations. University officials specifically cited the “significant presence of individuals not affiliated with the University” as a key factor in their decision to request police intervention. This revelation raises serious questions about the nature of these protests and whether outside agitators are exploiting campus tensions to further broader political agendas at the expense of students’ education and
