The student protests over the war in Gaza have created a new and unpredictable challenge for Joe Biden. The president is resisting calls to cut US support to Israel while trying to keep the voter coalition he will need for re-election united. The protests at Columbia University in New York and other campuses have captured the attention of the world media.
Biden’s handling of the conflict in the Middle East is closely followed by American Jewish and Arab voters in crucial swing states. In the best-case scenario for Biden, the protests are a passing distraction. Meanwhile, the White House continues negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas. At the same time, pressure is being applied to Israel to limit casualties that have already exceeded 34,000 Palestinian deaths.
In the worst-case scenario, the protests could gather momentum leading up to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August. This has the potential to trigger scenes of violence reminiscent of the Vietnam War protests in 1968.
Biden’s advisors have had to work to minimize disruptions caused by pacifist protesters. They have held smaller campaign events with strictly controlled access. Protesters forced his motorcade to change route to the Capitol on his way to deliver the State of the Union address and symbolically spilled red substance near his home in Delaware.
The situation may lead to more confrontations with students this spring. Morehouse College announced Biden’s presence at the historically black campus in May to deliver a graduation speech, which could spark protests. Additionally, over 100 pro-Palestinian protesters camping at Columbia were arrested, and dozens of others arrested on different campuses now face charges of trespassing or disorderly conduct.
There have been reports of an “alarming increase” in anti-Semitism, with some individuals reporting anti-Semitic chants and messages on the Columbia campus and surrounding areas. Similar concerns have been reported at other universities, making some Jewish students feel unsafe. The White House has denounced what it calls a “disturbing increase” in anti-Semitism.
In conclusion, the student protests over the war in Gaza are not only challenging Joe Biden but also highlighting broader issues of violence, freedom of speech, and anti-Semitism on college campuses.
