US President Joe Biden addressed the wave of violence and unrest on college campuses across the United States amidst protests over the Israel-Hamas war, Associated Press reports.
Biden emphasized the importance of maintaining order while defending the right to dissent, stating that “dissent is essential for democracy, but dissent must never lead to disorder.” He rejected calls from student protesters to change his approach to the Gaza conflict, including demands to end US support for Israeli military operations. Biden also expressed his opposition to deploying the National Guard to campuses, a move some Republicans had advocated, citing historical incidents like the Kent State shootings in 1970.
Republicans blame Democrats for the disorder on campuses and have used it as a backdrop for press conferences, with House Speaker Mike Johnson calling for the President to address the issue. Former President Donald Trump criticized Biden for not speaking out against the protests.
