An Israeli professor at City University in London, Michael Ben-Gad, reported that his lecture was disrupted by a group of masked individuals who allegedly threatened him with beheading. Ben-Gad, an economics lecturer who served in the Israel Defense Forces from 1982 to 1985, claimed that he has been labeled a terrorist by students on campus, leading to calls for his dismissal. During a Wednesday afternoon lecture, he stated that masked individuals confronted him, accusing him of being a “war criminal and a Nazi.”
Speaking to Sky News, Ben-Gad described the incident where protesters invaded his lecture, refused to leave, and made threatening remarks towards him. He also mentioned the circulation of leaflets branding him as a “terrorist” around the university campus, expressing concern for the safety of Jewish students who have been targeted nationwide.
Despite facing backlash, Ben-Gad commended the university for its support and refused an offer of paid leave, opting to continue his duties. However, a petition by City Action for Palestine called for his immediate removal from his position, demanding an apology from the university and urging consideration of ethical matters in future hiring decisions.
In response to the situation, a group of professors and tutors from various UK institutions denounced the harassment campaign against Ben-Gad, emphasizing the importance of upholding freedom of expression and condemning attempts to intimidate lecturers based on their nationality or religion.
City St George’s University affirmed its commitment to freedom of expression but condemned any unlawful attempts to disrupt academic operations. The university vowed to protect its staff and students from harassment and affirmed its support for Ben-Gad and colleagues of all backgrounds. The Mirror has contacted City St George’s University for additional comments on the matter.
