University Protest Sparks Legal Controversy with Divestment Demands

A 23-year-old pro-Palestinian protester was charged with assault following a demonstration at the University of Minnesota. Protesters barricaded themselves inside an administrative building, causing property damage and demanding that the university divest from Israel. Charges against 10 other individuals are pending further investigation.

In a tense standoff at the University of Minnesota, local prosecutors have charged a 23-year-old pro-Palestinian protester with assault. This comes as the fallout continues from a demonstration involving a dozen individuals who barricaded themselves inside an administrative building earlier this week.

The protest saw demonstrators paint over security cameras, shatter windows, and block entry and exit points of Morrill Hall. However, only one individual has been charged so far, while potential charges against 10 others remain under review.

Inside the university, the demonstrators called for divestment from Israel and sought to repeal the institution's political neutrality stance. This protest is part of a larger movement echoing across campuses as students raise concerns about free speech and alleged support for conflict in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)