Following reports of tensions between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli tourists, a group of Israeli teenagers were attacked on the Greek island of Rhodes after leaving a nightclub. According to the victims, some of the teens were physically assaulted while one of the attackers filmed the encounter. The incident began when a man approached the group and then called over a large number of people. The teenagers scattered to hide as they were chased by the attackers, with local police later escorting them back to their apartment.
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During a fundraising event, a pro-Palestinian group allegedly shouted “Hamas are coming,” according to a video shared by Noa Argamani, an attendee. The video also claimed that these individuals blocked attendees from entering and exiting the building. Argamani, who was present at the event, later shared the video of the incident. The event was intended for fundraising.
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In a misguided act of activism, over 100 pro-Palestinian vandals caused more than $1.1 million in damage to Ukrainian military equipment at a Belgian defense facility. The “Stop Arming Israel” group targeted the OIP Land Systems hangar, where they vandalized armored vehicles with hammers and graffiti. Despite the group’s focus on Israeli armament, the damaged equipment was designated for Ukraine, not Israel, and has caused a one-month delay in delivering vehicles. The company has provided hundreds of armored vehicles to Ukraine since the beginning of the war against Russia.
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Following public outcry and a Guardian exposé revealing misconduct, the University of Michigan terminated its contract with City Shield, a private security firm, for undercover surveillance of pro-Palestinian student groups. The university president acknowledged the investigators’ actions violated university values and directives, stating that no one should be targeted for their beliefs. At least $800,000 was paid to City Shield between June 2023 and September 2024, with some evidence collected used to charge and jail students. While the university president claims no targeting occurred, critics argue the surveillance solely focused on pro-Palestinian activists.
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The University of Michigan employed private investigators from City Shield to conduct extensive surveillance of pro-Palestinian student groups, including following, recording, and eavesdropping on students on and off campus. These tactics, which involved intimidation and even physical threats, resulted in at least $800,000 in university spending and were used to support charges against students, most of which were later dropped. The university denies targeting students based on beliefs, but the surveillance escalated following police raids and has created a chilling effect on free speech. This extensive security operation, including undercover and overt measures, cost the university millions of dollars.
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Sinn Féin leaders Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O’Neill will boycott this year’s White House St. Patrick’s Day events to protest U.S. President Trump’s stance on the Gaza conflict. This decision, by the largest party on the island of Ireland, highlights the party’s strong pro-Palestinian views and reflects deteriorating Irish-Israeli relations following the October 2023 Hamas attacks. Their absence underscores Sinn Féin’s significant influence in Irish politics and their willingness to publicly oppose U.S. policy. Despite the boycott, both leaders will still undertake other engagements in the U.S.
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The Pride Parade cancelled mid-route after a pro-Palestinian demonstration on Yonge has sparked significant controversy and debate. As an individual, I find myself torn over the events that transpired. On one hand, the disruption caused by a small group of protestors, chanting “Free Palestine” and “Pride wants a riot”, leading to the parade’s cancellation seems incredibly disheartening. How could such a celebratory event be hijacked by a political agenda, risking the safety and joy of thousands in attendance?
It’s unsettling to witness the clash of ideologies during what should have been a day of unity and celebration. The intersectionality of the LGBTQIA+ movement with the pro-Palestinian cause raises important questions about the complexity of social justice advocacy.… Continue reading
The recent events at UCLA, where classes were canceled after counterprotesters violently attacked a pro-Palestinian camp, have left many of us stunned and appalled. The headline changes in news articles, including the LA Times, have raised questions about the transparency and accuracy of reporting. The violence that took place, with individuals yelling hateful slogans and attacking peaceful protestors, is nothing short of disturbing. It is disheartening to see such aggression and intolerance on a university campus, a place that should be a safe and inclusive environment for all.
The use of soft language such as “counterprotesters” to describe violent acts is concerning.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker