Columbia University punishes students for building occupation

Columbia University has announced punishments for students involved in the occupation of Hamilton Hall during anti-Israel protests last spring. The penalties include expulsions and suspensions, following scrutiny over antisemitism on campus. The university's Judicial Board issued these sanctions amid controversy over the Trump administration's decision to revoke over $400 million in federal funding due to alleged inaction against harassment of Jewish students. Columbia has faced increased criticism since the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, leading to resignations of several deans and the university president. The new interim president aims to address the issues and improve the campus environment for Jewish students.