Senators Josh Hawley and Tom Cotton have called upon President Biden to mobilize the National Guard in response to the escalating threats faced by Jewish American college students amid a backdrop of anti-Israel and pro-terrorist demonstrations on campuses across the country.
In a letter penned to President Biden on Monday, Senator Hawley, a Republican representing Missouri, underscored the urgent need for action, stating, “Jewish Americans on college campuses across the United States are facing significant risks to their safety and well-being. Your recent statement on Passover rightly acknowledged the rising harassment and calls for violence against Jews, condemning such blatant antisemitism as reprehensible and dangerous. Now, it is imperative that concrete actions follow your words.”
Senator Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and security of Jewish American students: “The recent wave of anti-Israel and pro-terrorist demonstrations on college campuses has created a hostile environment for Jewish students, who should be able to pursue their education without fear of intimidation or violence. It is the duty of the federal government to protect the rights of all Americans, including the right to express their views and practice their faith without fear of persecution.”
Both senators called on President Biden to utilize the resources of the National Guard to protect Jewish American college students and maintain order on campuses where demonstrations have become violent or disruptive. They also urged the administration to work with state and local authorities to address the underlying causes of the recent surge in antisemitic incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.