New York, NY: At least ten students were hospitalized following a chemical incident that occurred during a pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University last Friday. The nature of the chemical is still under investigation, with initial reports suggesting it may be a military-grade irritant known as “Skunk.”
Two individuals identified as General Studies students at Columbia and former members of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been identified as the suspects. They allegedly sprayed the chemical at protestors during the event.
Witnesses reported that prior to the incident, the suspects verbally harassed attendees, using offensive language targeting Jewish students and pro-Palestinian demonstrators.
University officials have condemned the incident, calling it a “serious violation of our community standards” and vowing a thorough investigation. The New York City Police Department is also investigating the matter.
Both students involved have been suspended from the university pending the outcome of the investigation.
