Columbia University President Minouche Shafik Resigns Amid Israel-Hamas War Protests on August 14, 2024

Aug 15, 2024, 12:37 AM

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik has resigned effective August 14, 2024, after a tumultuous tenure marked by controversy over her handling of campus protests related to the Israel-Hamas war. Shafik's resignation comes amid criticism from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups for her response to the protests, which have been a source of significant unrest at the university. Her decision to step down was announced in an email to the Columbia community, citing the challenges of overcoming divergent views within the university. Shafik is the third Ivy League president to resign in the wake of similar controversies, including anti-Israel protests and issues concerning the safety of Jewish students. Her resignation is effective immediately, and she will transition to a new role, chairing a review of the UK's international development strategy.