Marwa Elshakry, a Columbia University associate professor, has sparked widespread criticism for her defense of Hamas and propagation of antisemitic narratives. As a coordinating member of Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine (FSJP-CBT) since November 2023, Elshakry has justified the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks and perpetuated harmful rhetoric targeting Jewish individuals and communities. Her actions, particularly during Columbia’s ongoing debates about extremism on campus, have drawn sharp rebukes from advocates of tolerance and safety.

Marwa Elshakry’s Support For Hamas

Elshakry publicly described the brutal Hamas attacks, which included mass murder, torture, and kidnappings, as a “military response” and a justified act of resistance. This rhetoric was echoed in an October 30, 2023, letter she signed alongside other faculty, which reframed the massacre as part of an ongoing “occupation.” Her statements minimized the atrocities committed by Hamas while glorifying acts of violence, aligning with a broader pattern of antisemitic justification under the guise of activism. Such rhetoric not only downplays the severity of these crimes but also emboldens extremist ideologies.

Inciting Chaos on Campus

Through her involvement with Columbia’s Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine, Elshakry has also defended campus organizations like Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), which expressed solidarity with Hamas shortly after the attacks. Her outspoken defense of groups and individuals promoting antisemitism and violence raises concerns about the safety and inclusivity of Columbia’s academic environment. By framing terrorism as resistance and amplifying divisive rhetoric, Elshakry has contributed to a climate of hostility that undermines the values of tolerance and mutual respect.

Highlighting Her Activity:

• Defense of Terrorism: Signed statements justifying Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks as a “military response” and “resistance.”
• Antisemitic Rhetoric: Spread narratives minimizing Hamas’s atrocities while perpetuating harmful tropes against Jewish communities.
• Advocacy for Extremist Groups: Actively supported Columbia SJP, which publicly endorsed Hamas and justified acts of violence.
• Promoter of Divisive Ideologies: Used her platform to normalize rhetoric that glorifies terrorism and fosters a hostile campus environment.