Oxford student arrested for chanting anti-Zionist slogan at protest
A University of Oxford student has been arrested following alleged chants promoting anti-Zionism during a protest. The incident occurred at a Palestine Coalition demonstration in central London on Saturday, October 11.
Details of the Incident
The student was captured on video reportedly encouraging the crowd with the chant, “Gaza, Gaza make us proud, put the Zios in the ground.” This chant aimed to rally support for Gaza and was described as a product of brainstorming sessions held at the university.
Arrest and University Response
The Metropolitan Police announced the arrest of a 20-year-old man from Oxfordshire on Wednesday, October 15. He is suspected of inciting racial hatred and is currently in police custody. Authorities confirmed this as the only arrest related to the incident.
The University of Oxford has suspended the student in question. A university spokesperson stated that while they cannot provide specifics about any individual case, they hold the authority to act swiftly when serious concerns arise. They emphasized the university’s commitment to upholding safety and dignity within its community and condemned any form of hatred or discrimination.
Context of the Protest
The protest, which took place in central London, drew attention to ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Palestine. This incident has sparked discussions about free speech, safety, and the boundaries of protest chants.
In summary, this event highlights growing tensions around the discourse surrounding Israel and Palestine, especially in academic circles. The actions taken by the University of Oxford reflect a stance against antisemitism and a commitment to maintaining a respectful environment for all students.
