Princeton University police detained two individuals during a protest that escalated with the display of a Hezbollah terror flag.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
On Thursday, a protest at Princeton University’s McCosh Courtyard, initially a peaceful sit-in, led to the arrest of two individuals after a Hezbollah flag was displayed. The demonstration was part of a broader series of “Gaza Solidarity” encampments and marches at U.S. colleges, urging institutions to sever ties with Israel.
However, the presence of the Hezbollah flag, which features a yellow background and green insignia, has sparked significant controversy. The flag was noted at approximately 5:16 p.m., and was quickly removed by organizers, reported The Daily Princetonian. The image of the flag was shared on social media by Myles McKnight, a recent alum and former student leader.
Hezbollah, a group based in southern Lebanon, is designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department. It has been involved in various attacks against Israel, particularly intensifying after the recent Oct. 7 terror attack in Israel.
The incident at Princeton is part of a worrying trend of some campus protests turning towards expressions of hate and antisemitism. At Columbia University, for instance, protesters were heard shouting affiliations with Hamas and making derogatory comments about Jewish origins.
In response to the incident and the broader disruptions, Princeton University President Christopher Eisgruber emphasized in an op-ed that while the university guarantees the right to protest, it must not involve threats, harassment, or violations of law. He specified that actions like blocking access, occupying buildings, or establishing encampments are considered unsafe and could lead to arrests and bans from campus.
Following the incident, all tents at the Princeton protest were voluntarily dismantled, and university officials reiterated the necessity for demonstrations to adhere to established guidelines to ensure safety and legality.
Disgraceful. https://t.co/IaNTpzNPQ9
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) April 26, 2024