Columbia Professor Under Fire for Comments on Hamas While Preparing to Teach Zionism Course

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Columbia University has come under scrutiny after Joseph Massad, a professor who described Hamas’ October 7 attacks on Israel as "awesome," is slated to teach a course on Zionism. The course, according to the university's description, will examine the "History of the Jewish Enlightenment (Haskala) in 19th century Europe" and trace the development of Zionism up to the present peace process involving Israel, Arab states, and the Palestinian national movement.  

 

Massad’s controversial remarks appeared in a column for The Electronic Intifada, posted the day after Hamas’ attack, which resulted in widespread casualties and international condemnation. In the article, Massad described the actions of Palestinian fighters as “astounding,” stating, “The sight of the Palestinian resistance fighters storming Israeli checkpoints separating Gaza from Israel was astounding, not only to the Israelis but especially to the Palestinian and Arab peoples who came out across the region to march in support of the Palestinians in their battle against their cruel colonizers.”  

He further elaborated, saying, “No less awesome were the scenes witnessed by millions of jubilant Arabs who spent the day watching the news, of Palestinian fighters from Gaza breaking through Israel’s prison fence or gliding over it by air.” These comments, which appeared to praise the events, have sparked backlash from critics who accuse Massad of glorifying violence.  

 

Representative Ritchie Torres, a Democrat from New York and a vocal supporter of Israel in Congress, condemned Columbia University for allowing Massad to continue teaching. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Torres stated, “Why should U.S. taxpayers subsidize ideological indoctrination that glorifies the mass murder, maiming, mutilation, rape, and abduction of Jews and Israelis?”  

 

 

Massad’s column and his upcoming course on Zionism have reignited debates surrounding academic freedom, the boundaries of political discourse, and the role of universities in addressing controversial viewpoints. Critics argue that Massad’s statements are inflammatory and inappropriate for someone teaching a subject as sensitive and contentious as Zionism, while defenders may view his writings as an expression of academic freedom and a critical perspective on ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.  

 

Columbia University has not issued a public statement on the controversy, leaving questions about how the institution will navigate the backlash and whether it will address concerns raised by critics, including lawmakers and members of the public.

 

Columbia international and public affairs adjunct professor Lawrence Rosenblatt reportedly has resigned because of the class.

 

Based on a report by Yahoo 2024-12-19

 

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