France asks universities to suppress pro-Palestine protests ahead of 7 October anniversary

The French government on Friday asked the country's universities to "prevent any risk of unrest" before 7 October, the anniversary of the Hamas-led attack on Israel, and "firmly" condemned recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Parisian universities.

In a circular sent to university and higher education presidents, the new French Minister of Higher Education, Patrick Hetzel, warned them of their responsibility in "maintaining order".

The circular reminded them in particular that they are "by virtue of the law, responsible for ‘maintaining order’ and ‘security within the premises of the establishment’" and that it is up to them "to use (their) police powers to prevent any risk of disturbance", "restore order" and "protect users and staff", AFP reported.

The circular also reminds them to report to the courts any "facts (..) appearing sufficiently established and likely to constitute a crime or an offence".

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations took place on Tuesday and Thursday in front of Sciences Po Paris, one of the country's top universities, bringing together around a hundred people, according to the school management.

A demonstration also took place on Thursday in the premises of Inalco (National Institute of Oriental Languages ​​and Civilisations) in Paris, according to the ministry.

Hetzel said in a statement that he "strongly condemns these actions, which go against the principles of neutrality and secularism of the public higher education service."

Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon on Friday called the protests at Sciences Po Paris "unacceptable," asking the management to "take responsibility."