Amid unrest at Columbia University, campus rabbi urges Jewish students to stay away until it’s safe to return

Following days of unrest and anti-Israel action at Columbia University in New York City, the university’s orthodox rabbi sent a message to Jewish students urging them to stay away from campus until it is deemed safe again, CNN reports.

In a message seen by CNN, the rabbi condemned the “terrible and tragic” events of the last few days.

Recent events “have made it clear that Columbia University’s Public Safety and the NYPD cannot guarantee Jewish students’ safety in the face of extreme antisemitism and anarchy,” the rabbi wrote.

“It deeply pains me to say that I would strongly recommend you return home as soon as possible and remain home until the reality in and around campus has dramatically improved,” the message continued. “It is not our job as Jews to ensure our own safety on campus. No one should have to endure this level of hatred, let alone at school.”

The current unrest at Columbia began when the university asked the police to dismantle a “Gaza solidarity encampment” set up by students on the grounds of the university.

More than 100 people were arrested as the encampment was dismantled, and anti-Israel protests have been ongoing since then.