Tensions flared at Yale University this week as hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered to protest a visit by Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir.
The protest took place just off-campus, where Ben Gvir was scheduled to speak at Shabtai, a private Jewish student society not officially affiliated with Yale.
The protest began Tuesday evening in Beinecke Plaza, where around 200 individuals set up tents and chanted slogans such as “Palestine will be free” and “The people united will never be defeated.”
The group disbanded around 11 p.m. after Yale officials warned them of policy violations and handed out QR codes linking to the university’s guidelines on peaceful assembly.
Some students involved had already received warnings from previous protests and now face disciplinary action.
Yale has since revoked the group’s status as a registered student organization and announced it is investigating reports of antisemitic behavior at the event.
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The protest resumed Wednesday night outside the gated mansion where Ben Gvir delivered his talk.
Demonstrators filled the sidewalk, chanting “Free Palestine” and “Yale, your hands are red,” while booing attendees and briefly blocking vehicles entering the property.
Ben Gvir, a controversial figure in Israeli politics, has previously been convicted of inciting racism and supporting terrorism. He is known for his far-right stances and admiration for Donald Trump.
This is his first visit to the U.S. in his role as national security minister.
His speech came during a series of diplomatic meetings, including one with former President Trump. Protesters opposed the visit on both political and humanitarian grounds, citing Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza.
The protest marked the one-year anniversary of a similar demonstration at Yale that led to 45 arrests. Students are again urging the university to divest from companies connected to Israel’s military actions.
Yale stated it condemns antisemitism and is committed to free expression within the bounds of campus policy.
