UCLA Suspends Two Pro-Palestinian Groups After Alleged Vandalism and Harassment

Two pro-Palestinian student groups at UCLA, Students for Justice in Palestine and Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine, were suspended on Wednesday after allegations of vandalism and harassment at the home of UC Regent Jay Sures in Brentwood. The groups reportedly protested at Sures' residence, vandalized property, and harassed him, his family, and neighbors.

UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk strongly condemned the actions, emphasizing the importance of safety for all students and members of the UCLA community. He stated that without safety, no one can truly thrive, and that violence has no place at UCLA. The suspension is part of an ongoing investigation into potential violations of university conduct rules.

Allegations against the groups include intimidating Sures and his family, blocking a family member's car, disrupting the area with drums and threatening signs, and defacing the property with red handprints and banners. The university has yet to confirm whether any violent actions took place but has indicated that serious disciplinary measures could follow if the reports are confirmed.

The suspensions have sparked mixed reactions. Faculty for Justice in Palestine at UCLA criticized the action, calling it a betrayal of students standing up for Palestinians. On the other hand, Wade Stern, president of the Federated University Peace Officers Association, supported the suspension, calling it necessary and overdue. He emphasized that the actions were not peaceful protests but targeted intimidation and vandalism, and called for full accountability for those involved.

UCLA's ongoing investigation and review will determine further consequences based on the findings.