PHX Reporter

Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, criticized Arizona State University for hosting a pro-Palestinian rally after previously attempting to prevent him from speaking on campus. This statement coincides with the recent attack by Hamas on Israel over the weekend, which led to substantial casualties.

Kirk accused ASU of hosting groups that sympathize with terrorists and promote violence against Jews. He said, "ASU is now proudly hosting groups that sympathize with terrorists who murder and rape Jews." Kirk also pointed out that ASU had previously tried to kick him and Dennis Prager off campus. He further stated, "Remember, nine out of ten times, the radicals are the very thing they accuse you of being."

The Arizona State University chapter of the National Students for Justice in Palestine (NSJP) has organized rallies in support of Palestine and in favor of the recent Hamas attacks. One rally already took place last Sunday at Tempe Beach Park. Similar rallies are planned on other college campuses, including Butler University, University of Louisville, University of Birmingham, the University of Virginia, and more, organized by their respective NSJP chapters.

Hamas, an Islamist militant group and terrorist organization, initiated airstrikes on the Gaza Strip during the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War. Many airstrikes were launched at various parts of Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The resulting casualties have exceeded a thousand deaths and thousands of injuries, with more anticipated. Among the victims, at least 25 were American citizens. Israel responded by declaring war on Hamas.

The situation has caused distress among Jewish students at ASU. Clay Robins, Communications Coordinator for Winged Victory Agency and ASU Grad, expressed his concerns in a post on the X platform, saying, "Imagine being a Jewish student at ASU and your classmates are cheering on the slaughter of your people."

This is not the first time ASU has faced controversy over freedom of speech. Earlier this year, the University underwent an investigation over a conservative event organized by the Lewis Center at the Barrett Honors College. The fallout from the event led to job losses for those involved in its organization.

Arizona State Senator Anthony Kern also expressed his disapproval of ASU's actions, stating, "Apparently, Arizona State University is okay with terrorists butchering babies, raping women, and torturing senile elderly women. The school supports this on campus. Your tax dollars at work."

The pro-Palestinian rally at ASU and the criticism by Charlie Kirk come at a time when tensions in the Middle East are high due to the recent attacks by Hamas. The situation highlights the ongoing debate over free speech on college campuses and the challenges universities face in balancing different perspectives and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students.