Early Wednesday, D.C. police disbanded a pro-Palestinian protest at George Washington University, arresting several for assault and unlawful entry as tensions escalated.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., dispersed a pro-Palestinian encampment at George Washington University early Wednesday morning, arresting several protesters. The encampment, part of broader national protests advocating for the boycott and sanctions against Israel, had been active for nearly two weeks.
Police action came hours before D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser was scheduled to testify before Congress regarding the handling of the encampment. In a statement, the MPD emphasized its commitment to facilitating peaceful First Amendment activities, mentioning efforts to deescalate tensions while ensuring the safety of students and campus facilities. The decision to clear the encampment followed escalating tensions and a lack of progress in negotiations with the protesters.
AT 4AM: We're following breaking news out of DC – where police are working to clear the pro-Palestine encampment at GW University. This comes hours before DC leaders are expected to testify on Capitol Hill over their handling of the encampment.@fox5melanie with a live report. pic.twitter.com/B5eyxMVvLB
— Jacqueline Matter (@JMatter_TV) May 8, 2024
Several incidents, including the replacement of a campus flag with a Palestinian one and defacement of a George Washington statue, raised concerns about the protest’s increasing volatility. The GW Hatchet, a campus newspaper, reported these developments, highlighting the contentious atmosphere.
Amidst this backdrop, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced the cancellation of Mayor Bowser’s testimony following the encampment’s clearance, commending her for her actions.
This incident at George Washington University is part of a larger wave of similar protests at universities across the nation, including Columbia University, Yale University, and UCLA, where students have expressed solidarity with Palestine and criticism of Israel’s policies. These demonstrations have led to significant disruptions, including the cancellation of major events like Columbia University’s main commencement ceremony.
George Washington University has yet to formally respond to the events or the police action on its campus.
