Arizona: University Probes Academic's Harassment of Muslim Woman Amid Gaza Solidarity Protest
The professor, who has been placed on administrative leave, was captured on video engaging in a confrontation with a Muslim woman.
The university spokesperson confirmed to Anadolu news agency that allegations against the professor, Jonathan Yudelman, are being taken seriously and are under review.
The incident, which has sparked significant backlash and calls for accountability, involved Yudelman shouting at the woman and encroaching on her personal space.
In the contentious video, Yudelman is heard making inflammatory remarks to the woman, who was wearing a hijab, as he was flanked by a group of pro-Israel supporters. The exchange escalated when Yudelman, accompanied by Sammy Ben, a reservist in the Israeli military, cornered the woman, preventing her from leaving the area.
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Social media reactions to the video have been swift, with many users condemning Yudelman's actions and suggesting they could meet the legal criteria for assault. "If this is Dr Jonathann Yudelman, he is held to a higher standard. He could be arrested for assault because in this country and in this state ‘blocking someone’s path – if coupled with threatening words or gestures- could possibly qualify as assault," one person noted.
"Two cowards exposed! Sammy Ben enjoys torturing Palestinians with the IDF so much, that he puts videos on social media. The other is Jonathan Yudelman, an assistant professor and fellow," another wrote.
The assault comes as universities across the United States have witnessed Palestine solidarity protests in recent weeks. The US police has arrested over 2,400 individuals in the protests. Protesters urge for a for a ceasefire in Gaza and the divestment from companies linked to the Israeli regime.
Yudelman's academic profile indicates his teaching roles at ASU and his research interests, which include political theory and the interplay between politics and religion.
Source: Agencies
