Police arrested several protesters on Saturday (4) at the University of Virginia, in the United States, while dozens occupied a pro-Palestinian camp on campus. The arrests were made after authorities declared “that the student assembly was illegal.”
Riot police officers entered the campus and dismantled the tents quickly, around 4 pm, Brasília time.
Pro-Palestinian protesters had been protesting on campus for five days, according to local media.
Earlier this week, a group called “UVA Encampment for Gaza” posted a statement on Instagram calling on the university to stop investments directed to Israel.
“The University of Virginia administration has militarized our campus. But what did they do when white supremacists attacked Charlottesville in 2017? Anything. Call and email now. Flood the lines and tell them to stand down,” the statement reads.
Protests at universities
More than 2,000 people have been arrested in protests at universities across the US since April 18. The demonstrations take place in different American states and also abroad, including prestigious institutions in France.
In general, students are asking universities to cut ties with companies linked to Israel. The specifics of student protesters' divestment demands vary from school to school.
With the intensification of violence and also the risk of expulsion, some students are also asking for amnesty after the protests end. Protesters also call for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and criticize President Joe Biden's support for Israel.
*With information from Reuters
Source: CNN Brasil
Bruce Belcher is a seasoned author with over 5 years of experience in world news. He writes for online news websites and provides in-depth analysis on the world stock market. Bruce is known for his insightful perspectives and commitment to keeping the public informed.
