Imam urges Columbia students to confront pro-Israel professor

An imam from Utica, Tom Facchine, urged Columbia University student activists to target a pro-Israel professor, Shai Davidai, during a webinar on August 20. Facchine's comments included suggestions on how to create a situation that could jeopardize Davidai's position, reflecting a broader climate of hostility towards pro-Israel voices on campus. Davidai, who has faced significant backlash for his outspoken views on antisemitism and campus safety for Jewish students, reported the imam's remarks to university officials. Columbia's administration initiated an investigation but concluded that the rhetoric did not necessitate enhanced security measures. Facchine, who converted to Islam in 2010, has gained notoriety for his radical views, particularly in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks. He expressed unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, dismissing any criticism of violence as irrelevant. His rhetoric has raised concerns among faculty and students alike, with Davidai describing Facchine as a dangerous radical who incites students against him. The situation has escalated tensions at Columbia, where the university has been criticized for its handling of antisemitism and the safety of Jewish students. Davidai, who has been barred from campus and is under investigation, remains defiant, asserting his commitment to speaking the truth despite the threats against him. Columbia University has publicly condemned discrimination and harassment, emphasizing that hate speech and calls for violence have no place on campus. The ongoing conflict highlights the challenges faced by academic institutions in balancing free speech with the need to protect individuals from targeted harassment.