Violence escalates as US University protests spread

The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to spark civil unrest, as protests demanding universities boycott companies and individuals connected to Israel spread across college campuses in the United States (US).

The unrest began at Columbia University in New York where significant pro-Palestine encampments and protests took place, resulting in arrests on the 18 April. However, the arrests fuelled further unrest nationwide, including in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Texas.

Over the past 48 hours, incidents of violence have severely escalated. Notably, at Columbia University, tensions intensified when police intervened as protesters occupied an academic building. This confrontation led to several pro-Palestinian protesters being forcibly removed by authorities.

At the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), clashes have erupted between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups. Reports indicate that counter-protesters have thrown fireworks, scooters, water bottles, and tear gas at demonstrators, leading to university security pulling back due to safety concerns.

Since the 07 October Hamas attack, we continued to monitor a surge in civil unrest throughout the US, and worldwide, many of which have resulted in violence or arrests. With no clear end to the conflict in sight, and the likelihood of the IDF launching an offensive in Rafah increasing, we anticipate significant civil unrest to continue in the coming weeks and months, with hotspots likely to remain within the educational and political institutions.