An Israeli professor at City University in London, Michael Ben-Gad, reported that his lecture was disrupted by a group of masked individuals who allegedly threatened him with beheading. Ben-Gad, an economics lecturer who served in the Israel Defense Forces in the 1980s, claimed that students on campus labeled him a terrorist and demanded his dismissal. During a lecture, masked individuals approached him, accusing him of being a war criminal and a Nazi.
Speaking to Sky News, Ben-Gad described the incident, mentioning being called derogatory names and receiving threats. He expressed concern for Jewish students who may face similar targeting. Despite the ordeal, he commended the university’s support and chose to continue his duties instead of taking paid leave.
City Action for Palestine initiated a petition demanding the immediate removal of Ben-Gad from his position and an apology from City University. The group accused the professor of being complicit in war crimes and called for stricter hiring considerations in the future.
In response, Ben-Gad acknowledged students’ rights to express opinions but condemned the disruption and intimidation tactics employed during the incident. He emphasized the importance of respecting differing views while maintaining a safe academic environment.
A statement signed by professors and tutors from various UK institutions expressed concern over the harassment campaign against Ben-Gad, highlighting the importance of academic freedom and condemning intimidation based on nationality, religion, or other affiliations.
City St George’s University affirmed its commitment to freedom of expression but denounced unlawful attempts to disrupt academic activities. The university vowed to protect its staff and students from harassment and affirmed its support for Ben-Gad and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. The Mirror sought comments from City St George’s University regarding the matter.