Former President Donald Trump commended the New York Police Department for swiftly clearing the Columbia University building that had been occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters. Speaking at a rally in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Trump described the police action as 'a beautiful thing to watch,' highlighting the efficiency and professionalism of the officers involved.
Trump expressed his satisfaction with the rapid response of the NYPD, noting that the situation was resolved within two hours. He praised the officers for their bravery in using ladders to access the building and ensure the safety of all individuals involved.
During his speech, Trump also criticized Columbia University's President, Minouche Shafik, suggesting that the institution's reputation had been 'badly damaged' due to the prolonged protests. He accused Shafik of being weak and hesitant in handling the situation.
In response to the events, Shafik addressed the campus community in a letter, acknowledging the challenges faced by the university as a result of the protests. She described the situation as a 'drastic escalation' that had pushed the institution to its limits.
The incident at Columbia University underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the impact of such disputes on academic institutions. The swift intervention by law enforcement highlights the importance of maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all individuals on campus.
