Police detain pro-Palestinian protesters on University of Texas campus

Texas state police on Wednesday detained pro-Palestinian demonstrators on the University of Texas campus in Austin after hundreds of students walked out of classes and began a sit-in in support of Gaza, local and state media reported.

Social media videos show state police in riot gear attempting to disperse the crowd. The Texas Tribune reported four students have been detained so far and more could follow if the crowds don't leave.

The Dallas Morning News reported that police were carrying batons and rifles, and some have used batons to push people back.

The university was prepared for the protests that began midday Wednesday, according to the outlet, with the office of student affairs sending out a statement warning students there would be consequences for participating in the event.  

“UT Austin does not tolerate disruptions of campus activities or operations like we have seen at other campuses,” a spokesperson for the office said. “This is an important time in our semester with students finishing classes and studying for finals, and we will act first and foremost to allow those critical functions to proceed without interruption.” 

The protest mimics others that have happened at numerous campuses across the country. The past week has seen demonstrations at several elite institutions where protesters set up encampments on university property.

Numerous schools have threatened suspension for students that participate, and more than 100 activists have been arrested at Columbia University.  

Columbia moved their classes to hybrid due to concerns about safety.  

The Hill has reached out to UT Austin, state police and Gov. Greg Abbott’s (R) office for comment.