A new student-run publication at Columbia University, titled "The Columbia Intifada," has ignited controversy and drawn condemnation for its antisemitic content. The newspaper, produced by members of an anti-Israel student group, features articles with inflammatory headlines such as "Zionist Peace Means Palestinian Blood" and "The Myth of the Two-State Solution." The authors of the articles have chosen to remain anonymous.
New York Representative Mike Lawler has strongly criticized the university's handling of the situation, demanding consequences for those involved. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Lawler stated, "If Columbia cannot protect Jewish students on their campus, they should lose federal funding and have their tax-exempt status revoked. And for those students here on a visa engaged in an ‘intifada’ against American students of the Jewish faith? Deport them." The newspaper was promoted on the Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine X account, where it was described as their "official newspaper."
A student protester with a Palestinian flag outside Hamilton Hall at Columbia University, April 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, Pool)
Columbia University released a statement on Friday condemning the publication. The university emphasized that using the Columbia name for a publication that promotes violence and targets members of the community violates their core values. They stated that promoting discrimination, violence, or terror is unacceptable and contradicts the principles of the university community. Columbia has launched an investigation into the incident.
A protest sign at Columbia University near a pro-Palestinian encampment, April 27, 2024. (Reuters/Caitlin Ochs)
Jewish students expressed their distress over the publication's content. One student, Brooke Chasalow, commented that headlines like "The Myth of the Two-State Solution" suggest a lack of desire for peace. Another student, who remained anonymous, expressed support for the newspaper, citing the importance of diverse viewpoints and freedom from censorship.
A scuffle breaks out at Columbia University during anti-Israel protests on September 3, 2024. (Fox News)
This incident follows a series of anti-Israel protests at Columbia University during the spring semester, which led to the cancellation of the university-wide commencement ceremony and increased security measures for the new academic year.
