Storm at One of the World's Prestigious Universities: The Professor Resigned Due to Attitude Towards Israel

Columbia University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the USA, is stirring harsh criticism following its decision to allow Joseph Massad, a lecturer who praised the actions of Hamas, to teach a course on Zionism but from his viewpoint. The decision encountered widespread opposition from politicians, Jewish organizations, and academics who claimed it was an attack on the morality and historical memory of the Jewish people.

Massad, a lecturer of Jordanian descent, published an article after the massacre where he praised the acts of the organization, describing them as 'an amazing move.' In an article on "The Electronic Intifada" site, he wrote: 'The sight of Palestinian resistance fighters breaking through the barriers and fences of the Israeli prison was amazing.' These words, which are unequivocal, stirred much anger, but the university chose to give him a platform to teach on such a sensitive topic.

Critics of the decision argue that Columbia University not only harms basic moral values but also works to perpetuate anti-Jewish and anti-Israeli narratives. 'Is this the academia that decades ago symbolized excellence and objectivity?' asks Prof. Lawrence Rosenblatt, a lecturer of international relations who resigned in protest. 'This move proves that Columbia University has lost its moral compass. How is a person who openly supported acts of terror against Jews fit to teach about Zionism?'

The decision is also receiving fierce criticism from Jewish and pro-Israeli organizations. The organization StopAntisemitism responded with anger: 'Appointing someone who supports terror to teach about Zionism is a slap in the face to everyone who has suffered from violence and antisemitism. What's the next step? Nazis teaching classes on equal rights?'

Democratic Congressman Ritchie Torres, a known supporter of Israel, denounced the move. 'This university has crossed every moral line,' he wrote. 'It is unacceptable for the American taxpayer to subsidize an institution that legitimizes terror and hatred towards Israel and the Jewish people.'

Jewish community leaders in the USA warn that such decisions may encourage antisemitism and harm efforts to promote understanding and objectivity regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 'We need to fight for the truth and defend Israel's right to exist,' stated the organization StandWithUs.