Tensions over protests on US college campuses escalated as House Speaker Mike Johnson visited Columbia University in New York. He faced jeers from pro-Palestinian protesters and called for the resignation of the university's president.

House Speaker Visits Columbia University

Flanked by Republican members of Congress, Johnson criticized the protests as "mob rule" and condemned what he called a "virus of antisemitism" at colleges nationwide. He called for swift containment of the protests, warning of potential National Guard intervention.

Background and Recent Protests

The demonstrations began after students at Columbia set up encampments calling for the university to divest from weapons manufacturers with ties to Israel. Similar protests have erupted at other universities, leading to mass suspensions and arrests.

Response and Reactions

Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul criticized Johnson's visit as "divisive," while Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemned the use of police force at non-violent demonstrations.