Location: Barnard College, New York

Incident Overview

On Wednesday, Barnard College’s library was evacuated following a reported false bomb threat. The incident occurred while pro-Palestinian protesters were conducting a sit-in within the Milstein Center, a central hub for academic activities at the college.

Response from Law Enforcement

The New York Police Department (NYPD) responded promptly, urging individuals to evacuate the building to ensure safety. They noted via the social media platform X that those who did not comply would face potential arrest.

Threat Investigation and Consequences

By 8 p.m., police reported via X that the bomb threat had been “investigated and cleared.” Subsequently, nine individuals were taken into custody during the protest, although the specific charges against them remain unspecified.

Protester Activities

Earlier in the day, demonstrators inside the library engaged in chanting, drumming, and displaying Palestinian flags, many of whom wore keffiyeh scarves and facial coverings. Videos circulating on social media captured these activities in real-time.

Police Actions and Evacuation

Footage later that evening showcased the police force making their way into the library equipped with helmets and zip ties, working to clear protesters and various individuals gathered outside the building.

Official Statements and Reactions

Barnard President Laura Ann Rosenbury described the day as unsettling and criticized the actions of the protesters for endangering the safety of the college’s community. She emphasized that the urgent need to evacuate was necessitated by the threat, which prompted law enforcement involvement.

“Today has been unsettling and disturbing, and these continued disruptions take a toll on our community,” said Rosenbury. “The desire of a few to disrupt and threaten cannot outweigh the needs of the students, faculty, and staff who call our campus home.”

Protesters’ Perspective

The student group, Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine, claimed the threat was a fabricated excuse by the college administration to disperse the protestors. They highlighted on social media that detained students were returned to the library as the investigation continued.

Context of the Protests

This particular sit-in was initiated around 1 p.m. in response to recent disciplinary actions taken against student protestors. The group had previously been involved in controversial protests, including an incident last week where demonstrators allegedly forced their way into an administrative building, leading to an altercation with a staff member.

Conclusion

As Barnard College prepares to continue its academic schedule, the college administration plans to address the ongoing tensions within the campus community stemming from these protests and the recent threat.

For further updates, follow coverage from various news outlets.