Columbia University's Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) claimed in a statement on Monday that “at least 10 students were hospitalized” after being attacked with chemical weapons after Friday's protests.
SJP issued a statement on Instagram claiming that the alleged chemical attack on a “peaceful” pro-Palestinian campus protest was carried out by “two former Israeli soldiers.” The statement further claimed that Columbia University “has not yet unequivocally condemned targeted hate crimes against Palestinian and pro-Palestinian students” and “has not provided appropriate support or guidance.” (Related: 'Immediate ceasefire': Pro-Palestinian Harvard students call off occupation of University Hall after 24 hours)
Dennis A. Mitchell, interim president of Columbia University, said: statement Monday announced that several “Columbia University and Barnard College students” claimed that “students sprayed them with a foul-smelling substance that required medical treatment.” The New York City Police Department has opened an investigation into the incident, the statement said in part. Columbia University said the “suspects” had been “banned from campus” as the investigation continues. The Colombian spokesperson added that police are also investigating whether the incident constitutes a hate crime.
new york police Said According to the Guardian, six students filed a police report, but no arrests have been made so far. A police spokesperson reportedly claimed that one person “smelled an unknown odor, began to feel nauseous and felt a burning sensation in his eyes.”
New York City police investigate alleged chemical attack on pro-Palestinian Columbia University student https://t.co/EoygHrBM16
— Guardian News (@guardiannews) January 23, 2024
Three students said they believed the substance allegedly sprayed on protesters was Skunk, a chemical developed by an Israeli company hired for crowd control (Columbia Spectator) report.
SJP was suspended from Columbia University in November for holding an unauthorized event that “included threatening language and threats,” in violation of university policy, ABC News reported. report. The university claimed that SJP's suspension would be lifted in the spring semester if the group demonstrated “a commitment to complying with university policies” (Jewish Insider) report.
