Classes at University of Melbourne canceled due to pro-Palestinian protesters

Pro-Palestinian protesters spent the night locked in a room at the University of Melbourne, leading to the cancellation of a second day of classes.

The group took over the Arts West building on Wednesday, dubbing it “Mahmoud’s Hall” in honor of Mahmoud Alnaouq, a young Palestinian killed in the Gaza war and who was due to begin his studies at university.

This activity was determined to violate university policy and those present were asked to leave the premises by 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, but the order was not respected.

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The university later said it was concerned about the escalation and was working closely with authorities to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

He said classes in the building were canceled for Thursday and other arrangements would be made.

At Monash University, student protesters said nine organizers had been accused of misconduct and threatened with suspension or expulsion.

The students say the allegations of misconduct relate to the nonviolent defense of the pro-Palestinian encampment against pro-Israeli activists.

Monash University has been contacted for comment.

An encampment at Deakin University in Burwood in Melbourne was ordered to disband on Monday, but students are resisting and held a rally on Wednesday evening.

The Australian National University in Canberra also asked students to prepare to leave the camp after meeting with organizers on Wednesday.

Pro-Palestinian encampments at Australian universities:

• NSW: University of Sydney, University of Wollongong
• VIC: University of Melbourne, Deakin University, Monash University, RMIT University, Latrobe University
• SA: University of Adelaide
• QLD: University of Queensland
• WA: Curtin University
• TAS: University of Tasmania
• ACT: Australian National University

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