Columbia University expels students for Gaza protests
Columbia University has expelled several students and revoked degrees for their involvement in the Hamilton Hall occupation last spring. The university's actions follow a lengthy investigation and include multi-year suspensions for others. The protests, which supported Gaza, escalated in April when demonstrators occupied Hamilton Hall, causing property damage and injuries. The recent expulsions are the first disciplinary actions related to pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia. Tensions remain high on campus, especially after the detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate student involved in the protests. Nearby Barnard College also expelled three students for similar actions, leading to further protests and police involvement.