University Presidents Face Backlash for Inadequate Response to Antisemitism

The White House and political leaders criticized university presidents for their weak condemnation of antisemitism and hate speech against Jewish people on their campuses during a congressional hearing. The presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology faced scrutiny for their responses to questions about calling for the genocide of Jewish people and other forms of hate speech. The White House spokesman expressed disappointment in their lack of stronger condemnation, while lawmakers called for their resignation or firing. The issue of antisemitism on campuses has become a point of concern amid tensions surrounding the conflict between Israel and Hamas.