Context:

A pro-Palestinian rally at Brooklyn College devolved into chaos as demonstrators clashed with police, resulting in several arrests and the use of a Taser by an officer. The protest followed the arrest of 80 individuals at a similar demonstration at Columbia University, highlighting the growing pressure on U.S. colleges to manage pro-Palestinian activism. Tensions at Brooklyn College escalated when demonstrators refused to disperse after setting up tents on campus, leading to physical altercations with police as they attempted to enforce campus policies. The crowd, chanting slogans and holding signs against Israel, moved to the Tanger Hillel House, where further arrests were made amidst claims of excessive police force. Brooklyn College emphasized its commitment to safety while acknowledging the right to protest, closing the campus and warning students of potential disruptions to classes.

Dive Deeper:

• A pro-Palestinian rally at Brooklyn College ended in confrontations between police and demonstrators as officers arrested several people and used a Taser on one individual. This incident occurred after a similar protest at Columbia University, where 80 people were detained, reflecting heightened tensions around pro-Palestinian activism on campuses.

• The disorder began after protesters, who had gathered to criticize Israel's actions in Gaza, exited the college campus. Despite warnings from college officials and security guards throughout the day, the rally seemed to be concluding without incident until police intervened.

• Demonstrators initially congregated on campus, setting up tents against college policy. When the tents were not dismantled after repeated warnings, police and campus security took action, leading to altercations and arrests.

• The protestors moved from the college grounds to the Tanger Hillel House, where they denounced it as a 'Zionist institution' and held signs with messages such as 'Israel has no right to exist' and 'save Gaza.' This location became a focal point for further police intervention.

• Brooklyn College defended its response, citing a need to maintain campus safety while respecting the right to protest. The college closed for the day, informing students of potential class disruptions and the temporary inability to re-enter the campus.

• The aggressive police action, including punching, kicking, and using a Taser, sparked controversy and raised questions about the necessity and appropriateness of their response to the protest.

• Brooklyn College's spokesman emphasized adherence to rules designed to ensure the university's safe operation, while the incident underscored the broader national issue of managing campus protests amid political pressures.