Columbia University announced disciplinary actions against dozens of students involved in protests supporting Palestine. The decision comes as the Trump administration continues to pressure the university by withholding federal funding. AFP reports that Columbia has agreed to implement a series of reforms to restore federal support, sparking discontent among students.
Reuters cited a university statement indicating that the penalties include probation, suspension for one to three years, revocation of degrees, and expulsion. The university did not disclose the names or further details of the affected students.
In its statement, Columbia emphasized its role as an educational institution: "We must focus on fulfilling our academic mission... A thriving academic community requires mutual respect and adherence to fundamental responsibilities, policies, and regulations. Disrupting academic activities violates university rules and will result in consequences."
According to the Associated Press, a student group revealed that nearly 80 Columbia students have received disciplinary notices. The group stated that the punishments are harsher than in past cases, with suspended students required to issue formal apologies to be allowed back on campus, or face expulsion. Some students have reportedly refused to apologize.
The protests at Columbia and other U.S. universities erupted last year amid the renewed Israel-Palestine conflict, with demonstrators opposing Israel's military actions in Gaza, expressing solidarity with Palestinians, and calling for a ceasefire. Since President Trump took office in January, his administration has demanded that elite U.S. universities revise policies to root out alleged antisemitism, eliminate race-conscious admissions, and other measures—or risk losing federal funding.
In March, the Trump administration revoked US$400 million in federal funding for Columbia. Weeks later, the university compromised, agreeing to reforms such as overhauling student disciplinary procedures, adopting a new definition of antisemitism, and placing Middle Eastern studies programs under the supervision of a vice provost. The funding cuts led Columbia to lay off nearly 180 employees in May.
CNN reported earlier this month, citing two sources familiar with the matter, that after months of negotiations, Columbia is close to reaching a deal with the Trump administration to restore federal funding. A source revealed that under the pending agreement, the university would pay a settlement and implement reforms to regain access to federal funds.
AFP noted that Columbia's concessions to the Trump administration have angered students. Responding to the latest disciplinary measures, a student group declared, "We will not be intimidated."
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