Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., expressed concern over potential police enforcement against anti-Israel protesters, labeling it as an 'escalatory, reckless, and dangerous act.' She condemned such actions, emphasizing the risk they pose to people's lives.
Previously, Ocasio-Cortez characterized anti-Israel protests on college campuses as 'peaceful.' This statement comes in light of Columbia University's president, Minouche Shafik, setting a midnight deadline for protesters involved in the 'Gaza Solidarity Encampment' to reach an agreement or face potential police involvement.
President Shafik's deadline aimed to prompt negotiations with student organizers to restore calm on campus, allowing students to complete the term and graduate. Failure to reach an agreement could lead to 'alternative options for clearing the West Lawn.'