Israeli college students, an activist mom, and an NYC rabbi recently appeared on FOX & Friends to discuss their reactions to the rising anti-Israel protests at colleges across the United States. The discussions come as Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody issues a stern warning to colleges and universities in the state, emphasizing a “zero-tolerance policy” for hate crimes, particularly those targeting the Jewish community, in light of the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Moody’s memo, addressed to 21 campus police chiefs, highlights reports of escalating tensions and incidents of anti-Semitism on college campuses. She cites specific examples, including a Jewish student at Columbia University who was physically assaulted after hanging flyers with the names and pictures of Israeli hostages captured by Hamas, and a Jewish student at Drexel University whose dorm room was set on fire.
Expressing concern over the safety and well-being of Jewish students, Moody asserts that Florida stands with Israel and those affected by Hamas’ “horrific crimes.” She stresses that the state’s zero-tolerance policy extends to college campuses and reinforces the need to combat acts of terror, harassment, assault, and threats against Jewish communities.
Moody’s memo comes against the backdrop of numerous anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian rallies and protests on college campuses throughout the country. Some Jewish students have accused colleges of turning a blind eye to growing anti-Semitism. Furthermore, professors have raised concerns about the normalization of pro-Hamas sentiments on campuses, which they argue are now manifesting in violent acts.
The memo references various state statutes that criminalize anti-Semitic hate crimes and the support of terrorist organizations, including Hamas. It also highlights legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, which prohibits the harassment or intimidation of individuals based on their religious heritage.
Moody emphasizes the urgency for colleges and universities to prioritize the protection of Jewish students from acts of anti-Semitism and hatred on campus. She stresses the need to ensure the safety of Jewish students attending institutions of higher education in Florida, as they face threats both domestically and abroad.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Florida has authorized evacuation flights to bring back its residents from the region. Governor DeSantis has also expressed concerns about bringing in refugees from Gaza, citing worries about importing further instances of anti-Semitism into the United States.
As college campuses continue to grapple with the repercussions of the war in the Middle East, Moody’s memo serves as a call to action, urging educational institutions to confront and address anti-Jewish hate crimes promptly.
Adam Shaw, a politics reporter for Digital, primarily covering immigration and border security, contributed to this article.
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