Rep. Jamaal Bowman has sparked controversy by claiming that the recent arrest of Rep. Ilhan Omar’s daughter, Isra Hirsi, at anti-Israel protests at Columbia University was politically motivated. Bowman suggests that the arrest was a form of payback for Omar questioning the university’s commitment to free academic expression.
Hirsi, who is an organizer with Columbia University’s Apartheid Divest group, was taken into custody by the NYPD and will face trespassing charges. She was later released from NYPD headquarters, where she revealed that she had been suspended from Barnard College for standing in solidarity with Palestinians facing a genocide.
Barnard College, one of four undergraduate schools at Columbia with separate administration, has been embroiled in controversy due to anti-Israel activism on campus. Activists have been protesting with calls for an intifada and the death of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Omar had previously questioned Columbia administrators about the anti-Israel activism during a congressional hearing. The situation escalated when reports emerged of a non-toxic flatulence spray called “Liquid A–” and “Wet Farts” being used in an attack at the protests, according to court documents.
Contributions by Fox News’ Louis Casiano and Alexis McAdams have shed light on the complex and controversial situation at Columbia University. As more information emerges, the spotlight remains on the ongoing debate over free expression, activism, and political motivations on college campuses.
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