Columbia University student Jonathan Lederer was attacked by an anti-Israel protester during a demonstration outside of the campus. The protester snatched an Israeli flag, punched Lederer in the face, and hurled antisemitic insults at him, including comparing him to a Nazi. Lederer, whose ancestors were killed in the Holocaust, expressed his support for a two-state solution and peace, but was met with hostility from the protesters. This is not the first time Lederer has been targeted during a protest at the university, having been attacked previously in April. Lederer believes Columbia University should take a stronger stance against student-led anti-Israel hate groups. The NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force is currently investigating the incident. Lederer described the attack as “twisted” and frustrating, as he was advocating for peace and co-existence while being accused of being a Nazi. A video of the attacker prior to the assault has been released by the police. Lederer criticized the university’s administration for not taking a firm stand against such violence and hate.
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