Amidst ongoing anti-Israel student protests across the United States, Columbia University has announced the cancellation of its convocation, according to a statement released by university authorities on Monday (May 6) local time, as reported by various media outlets including the New York Times.

The decision to cancel the convocation, a large-scale event traditionally held annually, comes in the wake of sustained protests in approximately 140 educational institutions across 45 states in the country over the past three weeks. The university cited safety concerns amid the ongoing protests as the primary reason for scaling down the event.

While small departmental events may still take place, the comprehensive convocation slated to commence from May 15 will not proceed as planned. The university administration expressed a commitment to ensuring the safety of students amidst the current situation.

In recent days, law enforcement authorities have conducted raids on campuses across the nation in attempts to quell the protests. Columbia University, among other institutions, has witnessed police intervention, resulting in the detention of approximately 2500 teachers and students. Despite these measures, the protests persist, underscoring the resilience and determination of the movement.

Furthermore, the impact of the protests has extended beyond the borders of the United States, with demonstrations spreading to various European countries, indicating the global resonance of the movement and its underlying grievances.