University Protest: Biden supports 'freedom of expression', but will denounce the violence

University protest

American Universities have become a flashpoint for debate in the United States with an university protest movement across the country calling for an end to the war and more generally the Israeli occupation in the Palestinian territories, with the right accusing demonstrators of anti-Semitism.

Strong tensions

“The president believes that freedom of expression, debate and non-discrimination on university campuses are important,” declared his spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre during a press briefing at the White House.

Due of large University protest, tensions remain high in certain American universities, notably in New York and more widely on the east coast of the United States, after at the call of their leaders, the police arrested a number of students opposed to the conflict which is ravaging the Gaza strip.

“We think it is important that people can express themselves peacefully. But in the event of hateful rhetoric, in the event of violence, we must denounce it,” a White House spokesperson said on Wednesday, April 24.

Students denounce the United States' extensive military and diplomatic support for Israel

Candidate for re-election in November against Donald Trump, the Democratic president is himself torn between this support for Israel and the anger of part of the left-wing electorate, particularly among young people.

Joe Biden promulgated a major aid plan this Wednesday, particularly for Israel. This plan also includes billions of dollars to respond to the "urgent need for humanitarian aid", particularly in Gaza.