NEW YORK — Columbia University has suspended more than 65 students and barred dozens of others, including alumni and students from affiliated institutions, after a pro-Palestinian demonstration inside the university’s Butler Library earlier this week, a school spokesperson said Friday.

The university, located in Manhattan, said those placed on interim suspension are prohibited from coming to campus, attending classes, or taking part in university activities.

Thirty-three additional individuals, including students from Barnard College, have been banned from campus. Columbia declined to specify the duration of the disciplinary measures, stating they remain under review pending further investigation.

The university also confirmed that some alumni who participated in the protest are now restricted from entering school grounds.

The demonstration, which occurred Wednesday evening, led to the arrest of approximately 80 individuals. Most face trespassing charges, while some may be charged with disorderly conduct, according to New York City police.

According to university officials, protesters forced their way into the building, displayed Palestinian flags and banners, and wrote slogans such as “Columbia will burn” on library furniture and picture frames. Masked demonstrators reportedly bypassed campus security and disrupted students studying for final exams.

Columbia administrators characterized the incident as an “outrageous” disturbance and requested police intervention to restore order. Officers wearing helmets and protective gear cleared the building.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday that his office is reviewing the visa status of international students involved in the library takeover for potential deportation.

The Trump administration has already pulled federal funding from Columbia and other elite institutions and detained international students in response to their handling of recent campus protests against the war in Gaza. — Agencies