Professor Shay Davidai of Columbia University in Israel resigned on Wednesday due to ongoing dissatisfaction with the anti-Israel protests happening on campus.
Davidai expressed his concerns, stating, “The university hasn’t taken the anti-Semitic, anti-Israel, and anti-American demonstrations seriously. Columbia’s leadership has failed us.” He’s critical of the current administration’s integrity, saying he doesn’t trust them to act appropriately and feels that his colleagues aren’t doing enough to hold them accountable.
He hopes that Trump will curb federal funding to certain organizations, reflecting his discontent with the administration’s handling of the protests.
A Columbia University spokesperson confirmed Davidai’s departure, stating he would be leaving on July 8, 2025, and expressing gratitude for his service. Additionally, the school announced that an ongoing investigation against him, initiated in February 2024, has concluded without findings or penalties.
Davidai had faced suspension earlier due to alleged harassment during a protest in October 2024. He was also banned from the main campus in April 2024 for organizing a pro-Israel demonstration.
He has been a vocal supporter of Israeli and Jewish students post the events of October 7th, criticizing the university for permitting anti-Israel sentiments and chaos on campus. He gained significant attention after a speech criticizing those who fail to address the “pro-terrorist” conduct around the university.
